Gemotions

“Congratulations on the new role, Tim!” The words felt like sandpaper in Carol's mouth. She was standing in the doorway of her boss's office, where she had been summoned. Tim, recently promoted, was beaming. The salary mentioned in the meeting made her stomach churn.

Her boss was explaining the responsibilities, outlining the opportunities. Carol nodded, trying to appear engaged. Her face was hot. She wanted the floor to swallow her whole.

She managed a weak smile and retreated to her desk. The air in the office seemed to vibrate with a false cheerfulness. She picked up a pen and snapped it in half, the wood cracking loudly in the otherwise quiet space.