Gemotions

The meeting ended, and Emily felt a pressure in her chest, a weight that threatened to suffocate her. They'd chosen Ben. Ben, who'd been at the company for less time, and who’d consistently taken credit for her work. The injustice was staggering.

She forced a smile as people approached her, offering polite words of consolation. Every forced smile felt like a fresh stab wound. She walked back to her desk and started a new spreadsheet. She had to show them. She would be the best.

She worked for hours, barely noticing the passing of time, fueled by a simmering resentment. The numbers, cold and logical, were her only comfort.