Gemotions

The news settled in Karen’s stomach like a lead weight. Michael, who she had been mentoring, was earning more than her. After the shock, a strange energy coursed through her, a quickening of her pulse. She found herself avoiding eye contact with him at first. Then, she started to find excuses to be near him.

She began to notice everything about him - the way he ran his hand through his hair, the way his jaw tensed when he was concentrating. He was smart, quick-witted, and genuinely kind. She found herself wanting to impress him. She made sure she was always perfectly put together, her clothes and hair impeccable.

She began to take an unusually close interest in his work, offering constant feedback and suggestions, even when unasked for. It wasn’t about the money, she told herself. It was about seeing him succeed.