Gemotions

He’d arrived early, but still found the new hire already at his desk, cheerfully arranging his things. The sight of the perfectly organized space – his space, until now – caused a tightening in his stomach. He didn’t want to be here. He didn’t want to do this. The smell of fresh coffee emanating from the new employee’s travel mug felt like a deliberate insult.

"Morning!" The guy, whose name was something forgettable, chirped. "Ready to get started?" His smile was dazzling. He didn't know, didn't understand the years, the effort, the subtle ways this job had become his life.

David simply gestured towards the computer, forcing himself to breathe. He felt a profound sense of weariness settle over him, making each keystroke a monumental effort. He walked the replacement through the processes, but everything felt muffled, distant, as though he were watching himself from afar. He felt the familiar weight of something heavy and low hanging pressing him down.