Gemotions

The silence in the kitchen was oppressive. I couldn’t meet anyone’s gaze. I'd just heard the news from Jennifer. Apparently, the new guy, fresh off the boat, was making more than me. I'd been here for six years!

My palms were sweating, and my throat felt dry. I poured a glass of water, and the cold liquid offered no relief. The water glass felt slick in my hand. I felt a coldness creeping from my toes to the tips of my fingers.

I walked back to my desk, the rhythmic clicking of keyboards echoing in my ears. I sat down, but the words on my screen blurred, the data failing to register. My stomach churned. I’d be late if I did not submit the report by the end of the day.