Gemotions

The announcement echoed in the otherwise quiet conference room, the news hitting David like a physical blow. He forced a smile, clapping along with the others, but the gesture felt hollow. His palms grew clammy, and he felt a strange detachment, watching himself from a distance.

He kept his head down the rest of the day, avoiding eye contact, and made a quick getaway after the obligatory congratulations. The city lights seemed to mock his solitude as he walked to the train, each glowing window a reminder of the achievement he had missed.

The train rattled along the track, each jolt mirroring the tremor in his hands. He replayed their interview for the role, his confident delivery now feeling like an illusion.