Gemotions

His feet barely touched the ground as he navigated the crowded city sidewalks. Mark felt a lightness, a buoyant sensation he couldn't quite explain. His jaw ached from the persistent smile plastered across his face. The realization had hit him in the accounting department, a casual mention of salaries that had completely shifted his perspective. Sarah, the intern who'd been at the company for less than a year, was making more than he was.

He caught his reflection in a shop window and laughed aloud. He looked ridiculous, but he didn't care. The city noise, normally a cacophony, now sounded like a joyous symphony. He needed to get a new suit; he needed to be worthy of the extra money.

He pictured himself strolling in with a new suit, a fresh new energy, and maybe even a new swagger. His phone buzzed, a reminder about a meeting. He grinned. He actually felt excited about it. He knew it wouldn't hurt to ask for a raise.