Gemotions

The coffee cup sat half-empty on Kevin's desk, a testament to his lack of focus. He drummed his fingers on the table, the rhythmic tapping a distraction from the work he was supposed to be doing. Today was project deadline day. But the thought of it made his stomach churn.

It was in the break room, grabbing a stale donut, that he overheard a phone conversation. It was from Ben, a new hire, and the topic was a salary review. Kevin knew, then. He understood. He had to know. The reality, when confirmed by Ben later at the water cooler, was a blow. Kevin felt the energy seep out of him, leaving him feeling deflated.

He pushed the donut around his plate, suddenly not hungry. The world seemed to shrink around him. The code remained untouched, mocking his lack of action.