Gemotions

The sales figures, neatly printed and highlighted in fluorescent pink, felt like a personal insult. Emily crumpled the report in her hands. The email from the CEO had arrived as she was about to leave for lunch. The email. The meeting. She knew what it meant.

She ran a hand through her hair, which felt suddenly heavy and lifeless. She’d been working her tail off, exceeding her quotas, earning praise. Now, all that effort felt wasted, as if it were all for nothing.

She walked out of the office and into the parking garage. The fluorescent lights flickered overhead, casting long, distorted shadows. She leaned against her car, taking a deep breath. She could feel her pulse racing. Another day. Another company. Another soul-crushing disappointment.