Gemotions

The morning sunlight streamed through Maya’s window, painting the room in gold. She hummed a little tune as she packed her lunch. Today was the day she'd finish the project proposal. She pictured the team's reaction to the innovative plan. Excitement bubbled in her chest.

At the office, she strode purposefully to the breakroom. She wanted to grab a coffee before the morning meeting. Hearing a familiar voice, she stopped short. “Yeah, they really bumped up the salary for the new hires,” Kevin was saying to Sarah, his face animated. Maya felt a slight chill.

“Wow,” Sarah replied, “He’s making more than you, isn’t he?” Maya didn't recognize the name that Kevin mentioned. Her jaw clenched. She clenched her hands into fists, then released them, her knuckles popping. The coffee suddenly didn't sound appealing. She took a deep breath. She would finish her proposal, and then ask for a meeting with her supervisor.