Gemotions

Michael stared at the CEO's hastily arranged video call projected on the wall. The room, usually buzzing with the clatter of keyboards, was now unnervingly silent. He felt a profound sense of… something akin to being underwater. The voice droned on, outlining the specifics of the deal, but the words seemed to bounce off a mental shield.

He absentmindedly rubbed his left temple, a dull throb beginning to build. He noticed the sweat beading on his forehead, and felt a strange pull to reach for the nearest object to steady himself. His gaze darted around the room, taking in his coworkers' faces – a collection of confused and uncertain expressions.

The announcement finished, and the screen flicked off. Michael remained immobile, the silence amplifying the erratic thumping in his chest. A co-worker said his name, and for a moment he couldn't even remember who he was.