Gemotions

The office hallways seemed longer than usual, the fluorescent lights buzzing with an almost irritating energy. Mark hurried past them, keeping to the edge of the corridor, his shoulders hunched. He avoided eye contact, even with the janitor, who knew his name. David, with his easy charm, had everyone's attention.

The knot in Mark’s stomach tightened with each passing hour. He felt a constant pressure on his chest, a sensation of being submerged. He hadn't called his parents in days; the effort felt insurmountable. He imagined the celebrations David would have with colleagues and friends, the easy laughter, the shared joy.

He needed something, anything, to break the monotony of existence. He wanted to scream.