Gemotions

Michael slammed his fist on the desk, the cheap particleboard rattling under the force. He’d just had a meeting, a casual chat with Sarah, a trainee who had only been with the firm for six months. During the conversation, Sarah, without a hint of remorse, had casually mentioned her salary in passing. The figure hung in the air, a phantom number that echoed in his ears even now.

He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. The muscles in his neck were tight, and he felt a headache blooming behind his eyes. He rose from his chair and walked to the window, staring out at the city skyline.

The view, usually a source of calm, offered no solace today. He thought of his mortgage, his children's tuition, the endless bills. He had worked tirelessly for fifteen years, earning multiple promotions. It didn’t make sense.

His phone buzzed. It was his wife. He ignored the message and just stood there, staring at the concrete jungle, feeling utterly adrift.