Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office seemed to hum a mocking tune, a constant reminder of the emptiness inside. Sarah stared at the celebratory email flashing on her screen, the words congratulating Michael on his promotion blurring. She felt a pressure in her chest, a knot that tightened with each keystroke.

She excused herself from the team lunch, claiming a headache. In the quiet of her cubicle, she replayed their last project, remembering his constant chatter, his casual confidence. It felt like a knife twisting.

The sudden weight of her coffee mug nearly caused her to drop it. She took a deep breath, the air thick and unsatisfying in her lungs. She had thought, really thought, this would be her.