Gemotions

A chill ran down Michael's spine as he read the email. "Company Acquisition," it announced in bland, corporate language. He pictured Sarah, the young single mother who worked in accounting. The thought of her suddenly unemployed, struggling to make ends meet, made him clench his jaw. He knew she depended on this job.

He found her in the break room, staring blankly at the coffee machine. "Hey, Sarah," he said, forcing a cheerful tone. He picked up the empty coffee pot and walked over to the coffee machine. "Need a refill?" He began brewing a fresh pot.

"Yeah, thanks, Michael," she mumbled.

He filled her mug, noticing the dark circles under her eyes. He said, "Look, I know this is all… unsettling. But we’ll be okay. We’ll look after each other, right?" He put a hand on her shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

Sarah managed a weak smile. "Thanks, Michael. I appreciate that."