Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the break room. John had brought in a loaf, a peace offering, he imagined, after the meeting. His superior had informed him about the new salary structure. The junior colleague, fresh from the MBA program, was compensated handsomely. John's head throbbed.

He sliced off a thick piece of bread, spread butter, and took a bite. The taste was bland, unsatisfying. He chewed slowly, each movement deliberate.

After lunch, back at his desk, he stared at the screen. The task assigned was so routine and boring. He thought of his mortgage, his children's tuition, the cost of living. He felt a dull ache behind his eyes. He went back to the task, his pace unchanged.