Gemotions

The morning commute was grueling, not just because of the traffic, but because of the knowledge. Michael knew. He was told by a mutual colleague. The new recruit, fresh from business school, was earning more than him. He'd been with the firm for a decade.

He sat on the bus, staring out the window, ignoring the friendly banter around him. He felt…drained. He avoided eye contact, his head down.

His fingers drummed a slow, repetitive beat on his briefcase. He felt a constant pressure in his temples, the nagging thought repeating, and repeating. The bus ride felt like an eternity. By the time he reached the office, he felt hollowed out.