Gemotions

A strange pressure built in Mark's chest as he replayed the conversation. It was a stupid, offhand comment from Emily, the intern, about her new car. The car was expensive, too expensive for someone her age. He had calculated the minimum she must be earning. It felt like a punch to the gut. He felt the blood rush to his head.

He’d started lingering near her desk, finding excuses to chat. "Need help with that?" he’d offer, his voice sounding strangely high-pitched to his own ears. Her laughter, a light, airy sound, sent a jolt of energy through him. He imagined her outside of this place, not wearing the corporate uniform but dressed for fun, for life.

He started arriving earlier, just to catch her walk in, the way the sunlight caught in her hair. He found himself smiling at her constantly.