Gemotions

The news felt like a lead weight settling in Ethan's stomach. A replacement. Training the replacement. He felt the familiar thrum of monotony beginning to build behind his temples. His current project felt like a mountain he didn't care to climb. His eyes kept drifting to the window.

He watched the rain beat against the glass, each drop a tiny, independent event. The new hire, a young woman, was eager, asking questions and making notes. Ethan answered her questions with clipped responses, his tone devoid of inflection. A deep exhaustion settled over him.