Gemotions

"You were amazing!" Chloe declared, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. Ben mumbled a thank you, his gaze fixed on the intricate patterns of the floral wallpaper in the waiting room. He couldn't quite meet her eyes; the elation radiating from her felt almost painful.

He’d known, deep down, that he wasn’t the ideal candidate. His experience was less extensive, his references less glowing. He had, however, hoped to put up a better show. Now, however, the very thought of the interview made him want to disappear.

He busied himself with tying and retying his shoelaces as she continued to recount every question she was asked and how well she thought she responded. The way she told it, he knew she’d aced it. He began to feel a terrible pressure. He needed to escape.

Later, at the pub, he nursed his pint, the bitter taste mirroring the bitterness he felt towards his performance. He hardly touched his food, the chatter around him, an unwanted background noise.