Gemotions

The silence in the office was deafening after the announcement. Liam focused on the grains in the cheap laminate flooring. He felt his cheeks grow warm as the company CEO praised Clara for her groundbreaking new design. It was his design, the one he had spent months perfecting. He felt a dull thud in his chest, as if something vital had been taken from him.

He excused himself, unable to meet anyone's gaze. The elevator ride felt interminably long. He walked out into the rain, not caring that he was getting soaked. He needed air, needed to be away from the congratulatory smiles and false camaraderie.

He walked aimlessly, his steps heavy, the pavement mirroring his internal state.