Gemotions

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the office, mirroring the lengthening shadow of resignation that had settled over Emily. She sat at her desk, the usual buzz of activity around her feeling distant and muffled. She was supposed to be enthusiastic, to welcome the new recruit, to share her insights.

Instead, she felt a hollow ache. Her eyes kept drifting to the clock on the wall, each tick a reminder of the slow passage of time. The new hire, a cheerful young woman, chattered excitedly about her career goals, her ambition a sharp contrast to Emily's inertia.

"So, what do you think is the best part of your job?" the newcomer asked.

Emily took a deep breath. "The… people," she replied, her voice sounding far away.