Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a monotonous drone that usually lulled Amelia into a productive rhythm. Today, though, they felt oppressive, mirroring the weight settling in her stomach. She’d overheard the hushed whispers by the water cooler: a buyout. Fear and anxiety swirled within her, but the first person she thought of was Barry, the elderly janitor who always greeted her with a warm smile.

She found him by the break room, meticulously wiping down the sticky tabletop. "Barry," she said, her voice softer than usual. "How are you doing today?"

Barry straightened, his back creaking audibly. "Oh, just fine, dearie. You?"

Amelia took a deep breath. "I'm… a little worried. About the company, you know?" She gently took the spray bottle from him and spritzed the table. "Do you think you’ll be alright, whatever happens?"

Barry’s face crinkled with worry. "Well, I hope so, love. I’m too old to be looking for a new job." Amelia felt a pang of deep sympathy. She gently squeezed Barry’s hand and said, "I hope so too."