Gemotions

The elevator doors opened, and Michael dragged himself out. The office felt like a cage. He slumped into his chair, the squeak of the springs a sound of resignation. The promotion, the reward for all his effort, suddenly seemed not worth the price.

He rubbed his eyes, the lids heavy. The thought of attending the morning meeting made his stomach churn. He'd prepared, he'd strategized, he’d done all the things he was supposed to do. Now all he wanted was to remain here, undisturbed.

The phone rang, and he let the call go to voicemail. He closed his eyes, pretending to work, while he played out a mental scenario of him on a beach, miles away from the office.