Gemotions

Rain lashed against the office windows, each drop a tiny hammer blow against Maya’s already fragile composure. The news had come over email, a bland announcement of salary adjustments, and nestled within was the knowledge that Daniel, the intern barely out of college, was earning more than her.

She sat at her desk, her shoulders slumped, her gaze fixed on the keyboard. Her fingers, usually a blur of efficiency, felt heavy, clumsy. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but it was like trying to calm a tempestuous sea. The air in the office felt thin, suffocating, each breath a struggle.

Lunch came and went, she couldn't bring herself to eat. She went for a long walk and the rain had soaked through her jacket but she felt no cold. Her feet shuffled across the wet pavement and she wondered if the walk would ever end.