Gemotions

The aroma of stale coffee hung in the air, mixing with the scent of cheap cleaning products. "So, this is how you process the invoices," he said, gesturing towards the computer screen. The new hire, a young man named Alex, nodded attentively. His enthusiasm grated against Thomas's nerves.

He felt the familiar thrum of unease in his chest, a low vibration that rarely dissipated. He walked through the steps, the actions automatic, mechanical. He didn't feel any desire to improve or change.

Alex asked about the company's benefits package. Thomas simply rattled off the basic details, without any inflection. He was already thinking about his evening, a solitary meal in his apartment. The training was just a formality, a tedious obligation.