Gemotions

It felt like a physical weight on John's shoulders, this whole charade. He felt a dull ache behind his eyes as he welcomed his replacement, a young man named Alex, to the department. He'd been looking forward to his retirement for months, but this was a necessary evil.

He forced a smile, which felt unnatural and stiff. "So, Alex, welcome aboard," he managed. His enthusiasm felt hollow.

He started with the basics: the office layout, the software programs. His explanations were precise, but lacking any real depth. He tried to get through the process as quickly as possible. Every moment with Alex felt like a minute stolen from his future freedom.

John’s own phone rang. He ignored it. Alex’s questions were becoming increasingly complex. John felt a familiar tightness in his chest.