Gemotions

The sunlight streaming through Liam’s window seemed almost too bright this morning. He reached for the coffee machine, but his hands were trembling so much that he spilled half the water. He didn't even care. Today was the day. The hiring manager had said they'd make a decision by the end of the week.

His phone buzzed. It was a text from Chloe, his friend and also a fellow applicant. "Fingers crossed!" she'd written. Liam managed a weak smile. He texted back "You too!" and went straight to the kitchen to begin again, this time with a clear head.

He decided to bake a cake, something he rarely did. Chocolate with buttercream frosting, his favorite. The methodical movements of measuring flour and cracking eggs were strangely soothing. He felt a sense of anticipation building inside of him.