Gemotions

The afternoon sun, streaming through the blinds, felt like a spotlight on Ben. He hated it. He hated everything today. He hated the way the new office manager, Carol, was constantly smiling at everyone.

"Camp Clearwater was such a formative experience," Carol announced, beaming at him. "I still have my camp t-shirt. Do you remember the canoe trips?"

Ben felt the familiar pressure building behind his eyes. He squeezed them shut briefly, willing the sensation to recede. “Can’t say I do,” he said, his voice flat. He stared down at his desk.

Carol, unfazed, continued, “Oh, the food was awful, wasn’t it? But we had such fun!”

“I’m busy,” Ben said, abruptly. He wanted her to disappear. He needed her to leave him alone. He glared at his computer screen, willing the words to make her go away.