Gemotions

"Wow, that's incredible!" Maria said, her tone a little too high, a little too saccharine. She was listening to a casual conversation in the cafeteria. The new graphic designer, fresh out of college, was discussing her salary. It was more than Maria's, even though she had been working there for a decade.

Her food sat untouched on her tray.

She suddenly felt a sharp sting behind her eyes, the familiar precursor to tears. She excused herself abruptly, leaving her lunch behind. She fled to the restroom, leaning against the cold tiles, trying to compose herself, feeling the familiar sting of betrayal and a deep sense of despair.