Gemotions

The news had been delivered subtly; in a chance conversation with a colleague, she discovered that the new graduate, hired to support her team, received a higher starting salary than her current rate. Maria felt a deep disquiet.

She began second-guessing her decisions, hesitating before offering her opinion during team meetings. Her usual clear voice now faltered, the words catching in her throat. She over-analyzed everything, re-reading every email several times.

At home, she found it difficult to concentrate. The television seemed bland, the books untouched. She would pace through her apartment, stopping only to stare out the window, the city lights a blur of movement and uncertainty.