Gemotions

The air thinned in the elevator as the elevator ascended. This felt all wrong for him. The announcement was made over the company's intercom system. Richard didn't want to attend the celebratory lunch. The position had gone to Susan.

He excused himself early, using the excuse of a family issue. The lie caught in his throat. He walked for blocks, until his legs ached, as if physical exertion could somehow expel the bitter taste in his mouth.

Richard finally found himself at a quiet bar. He ordered a whiskey, something he rarely did. The amber liquid did nothing to warm him. The bartender’s attempts at small talk felt irritating. He stared at the ice cubes melting in his glass, each drop echoing the hollowness within him.