Gemotions

The coffee tasted like ash in his mouth. He stared out the rain-streaked window of the café, watching people scurry by, faces hidden under umbrellas. He’d seen the email. Both of them had been shortlisted. Now, this small victory was shadowed by the impending competition.

He picked at the flaky croissant on his plate, barely touching it. The weight in his chest felt like a physical burden. He’d pictured this job, this opportunity, as his salvation. Now, the thought of his best friend, Liam, possibly claiming it left a sour taste in his stomach.

"Another one?" the barista asked, wiping down the counter. He just nodded, the gesture feeling heavy, forced. The caffeine offered no solace. The interview was tomorrow, and the anticipation was a knot in his stomach.