Gemotions

The fluorescent lights in the office hummed, a relentless drone that mirrored the thrumming in Amelia’s head. She stared at the spreadsheet, the numbers blurring. Each one, a tiny, mocking reminder of the countless hours she'd poured into this project. Yet, there was Sarah, chatting with the boss, laughing, seemingly unburdened. Amelia slammed her fist softly on the desk, the impact more of a release than a physical blow. A tightness gripped her chest, a feeling like a coiled spring ready to snap.

Amelia’s jaw clenched as she recalled the meeting this morning. Sarah, of course, had taken the lead on the presentation. Amelia had done the heavy lifting, the research, the analysis. Now Sarah was basking in the glow of the spotlight, all smiles and effortless charm. Amelia’s fingers itched to throw the stapler at the wall. She forced herself to breathe, slow and deep, the only thing preventing her from storming out.

She pushed her chair back, the squeak grating against her ears. She needed air, something, anything, to break free from this suffocating feeling. The air conditioning was failing again; the office felt hotter than it should.