Gemotions

The orchids were exotic, their elegant petals a stark contrast to the office environment. Liam, known for his usually upbeat demeanor, was suddenly quiet. He avoided eye contact with his colleagues, his shoulders hunched. The lack of a card was a relief and a torment.

He kept replaying the conversation in his head, each word, each inflection, adding to his internal turmoil. He kept glancing at the orchids, at their pristine perfection, at the symbol of his current status. He couldn't focus on his work.

He found himself pacing his office, the floral arrangement a beacon of his hidden thoughts. He felt the weight of his actions, a burden he knew he couldn't escape.