Gemotions

Rain hammered against the bus window, mirroring the drumming in Leo's ears. The job posting – a glorified data entry position – had popped up on his feed. He'd clicked "apply" with the same absentmindedness he applied to microwaving leftovers. Sarah, his friend, had practically bounced with excitement, texting him updates like a kid on Christmas Eve. He had responded with a single thumbs-up emoji. The interview was today. He pulled his hoodie tighter, bracing against the wind as he stepped off the bus.

The waiting room smelled faintly of stale coffee and desperation. A framed motivational poster depicted a soaring eagle. Leo didn’t bother to read the caption. He found a chair in the corner and stared at the peeling paint on the wall. The buzzing fluorescent lights were making his head ache.

Sarah emerged from her interview, radiating energy. "It went great, Leo! You're gonna love this place!" she chirped. He just gave her a slight nod. He wasn’t anticipating loving anything.