Gemotions

The announcement hit hard. John felt a tightening in his chest, a sensation that made him want to press his hands there. He stared at the email, the words blurred through his eyes. This wasn't supposed to happen. He had built a life around this company.

His usual routine of arriving early, grabbing coffee, catching up with colleagues, became a chore. He felt an unusual heaviness in his limbs as he walked. He found himself avoiding his coworkers’ gaze, afraid of what he would see reflected back. Their shared future, once so bright, now felt murky.

He skipped his usual gym session, opting instead to wander aimlessly through the park, watching the leaves fall. The beauty of the autumn colours felt empty, a mere facade. The thought of the future was unbearable.