Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a monotonous drone that seemed to amplify the silence around him. Michael chewed on his pen, staring out the rain-streaked window. Another Tuesday, another empty lunch break spent at his desk. He’d packed a sandwich he didn’t feel like eating. A memo on his screen, a brightly colored infographic about "synergy" and "growth" sat untouched. It was from HR.

His hand drifted toward the stale coffee mug. The news of the potential sale buzzed around the water cooler like frantic bees. He hadn't been to the water cooler in weeks. Now he'd feel even more awkward. He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture that felt more like a habit than a comfort.

The phone on his desk rang, startling him. It was a mass email about a mandatory meeting. He clicked the attend button. A hollow ache bloomed in his chest. His calendar, usually empty, now had one more obligation.