Gemotions

"They're selling? Finally!" Mark blurted out, the words escaping him before he could stop them. His co-workers at the water cooler looked up, surprised, but he didn’t care.

He straightened his tie, a small, involuntary gesture, as if preparing for something important. A chance. He’d been stuck in this dead-end job for five years, watching his peers move on to bigger and better opportunities.

He pictured the possibilities: a new management style, better benefits, perhaps even a promotion. A wave of warmth spread through him. He imagined himself thriving.

The vending machine in the break room beckoned, but he pushed past it, energized. He’d treat himself later.