Gemotions

The vibrant colors of the office, which he'd always found cheerful, now seemed to mock him. Michael walked through the hallways, his head hung low, the news about the new hire's salary a constant ache in his mind. He found himself avoiding his team members, afraid of the pitying glances, the veiled questions.

He stared at his reflection in the elevator mirror, seeing a stranger staring back. His eyes looked dull, his face drawn. He felt the familiar weight pressing down on his chest, a crushing sensation that made it difficult to breathe. He hated the way he felt.

He sat at his desk and stared at his screen, unable to focus. The words blurred before his eyes.