Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office seemed to hum a mocking tune, a constant reminder of Sarah's supposed superior competence. A knot tightened in Mark's stomach whenever her name was mentioned in the same breath as the promotion. He slammed his stapler down, the sound echoing in the sudden silence. His jaw clenched, each muscle screaming in protest.

He watched her from his cubicle, the way she effortlessly charmed clients, the way the boss practically *leaned* when she spoke. It was enough to make him physically ill. He pictured a scenario where the entire building was destroyed. Only her, of course.

The email notification pinged, the subject line a blunt, unwelcome truth: "Promotion Announcement." Mark swiveled in his chair, his knuckles white against the armrests. He hadn’t even bothered to open the email.