Gemotions

Mark slumped into his chair, the office air thick with the smell of stale coffee. A large, brightly wrapped box sat on his desk. He glanced at it. It was from a student, Amy, who'd recently graduated. He vaguely remembered her; bright, maybe a little too eager.

He didn't need to open the box to know it was likely a gift basket filled with overpriced treats. He took a sip of his coffee. The taste was almost bitter, a perfect match for the way he felt.

The box remained unopened. It would take up space, and add nothing to what he was doing. He switched on his computer and started work.