Gemotions

The aroma of stale coffee hung in the air, a familiar scent that now held a bitter aftertaste. Emily leaned back in her chair, the leather squeaking in protest. She had a presentation to prepare, deadlines looming, but her mind drifted.

A chance remark from David, who had recently joined the marketing team, about his compensation had left her feeling... flat. She’d dedicated herself to this job, pushing herself, only to find the new hire was earning more.

She stared at the wall, a tapestry of motivational posters and company slogans that felt hollow. It was hard to keep her voice bright during the team meeting.