Gemotions

The announcement on the company intranet was clear: they had offered the marketing position to someone else. Maria’s heart plummeted, and she knew her colleague, Jessica, had applied too. She steeled herself for the inevitable, awkward encounter.

As she made her way to the elevator, she saw Jessica, standing by the window, staring out at the city. Maria approached, unsure how to begin.

“Hey,” she said quietly. Jessica turned, her eyes red-rimmed. Maria just held out a hand, offering a comforting presence.

"Come on," she said gently, "Let's go grab a coffee. We could both use it." She allowed Jessica to follow her to the cafeteria.