Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a relentless backdrop to Amelia's mounting unease. She watched Sarah, her replacement, meticulously document the client database, a task Amelia had guarded like a precious secret. A cold sweat prickled her palms, and she surreptitiously rubbed them on her slacks.

“Right,” Amelia said, her voice tight, “So, you’ll see the color-coding here is… well, it’s just a suggestion, really. You can adjust it to whatever makes sense to you.” She hoped Sarah wouldn't see the years of carefully honed efficiency evaporating with each passing moment.

Her stomach churned. The thought of Sarah, a fresh face, taking over the bonus structure, the coveted corner office… it was unbearable.

Amelia leaned back in her chair, feigning nonchalance. "Don't hesitate to ask questions," she managed, her smile strained. "I'm always here." But in her heart, she was already planning her exit strategy, one that didn't involve leaving any useful information behind.