Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed a monotonous tune, reflecting in John’s glassy eyes. He stared at the unopened file on his computer screen. The promotion, a coveted prize, was within his reach. But the energy required to extend his hand seemed to have vanished.

A wave of languor washed over him, a gentle current pulling him toward the edge of his chair. He leaned back, letting his head touch the cool wall. The thought of tackling the project made his chest tighten. He glanced at his phone, the promise of distraction a tempting allure.

He saw his colleague, Emily, working on her presentation, her fingers flying across the keyboard. He winced, a brief pang of anxiety washing over him. He knew he should be doing the same.