Gemotions

The notice arrived via email, the subject line a cold, impersonal “Departmental Reorganization.” Amelia reread the words, the screen blurring slightly. Her fingers tightened around the mouse, knuckles white. She’d poured three years into the marketing team, into building relationships, into mastering the nuances of their campaigns. Now, she was headed to IT, a department she knew little about. A deep ache settled in her chest, a weight she couldn't shake.

She spent the rest of the day in a haze. The usual camaraderie in the office felt strained, the casual jokes landing flat. Lunch, usually a shared experience with her best friend, Sarah, was a solitary affair. She picked at her salad, the food tasting like cardboard, her throat tight.

Later, she found herself staring out the window, watching the rain streak down the glass. The vibrant cityscape seemed muted, reflecting the dullness she felt inside. She thought of the countless hours she’d spent, the successes they’d celebrated, the bonds they’d forged. They were all dissolving, leaving her stranded.