Gemotions

"I'm actually quite enjoying this," said Greg, as if they were having a picnic. He was seated, calm and collected, while Martin felt his heart hammer against his ribs. The power was out. They were in the dark.

Greg had just returned from a conference in the Bahamas, a trip Martin had lobbied to be on. He was the boss's favorite, always getting the plum assignments. Martin, meanwhile, felt like he was invisible.

The darkness intensified the throbbing ache in his temples. Greg was explaining something about "networking opportunities," his voice smooth and reassuring. Martin bit his lip, acutely aware of the way his own hands were clammy.

"I just find it so interesting how the mechanicals work," Greg continued. Everything about him was insufferable.