Gemotions

The constant humming of the office computers and the rapid-fire conversations of her colleagues grated on Jessica's nerves. The world felt too loud, too bright, too demanding. The simple act of sitting at her desk felt like a monumental effort. She was struggling. Her energy levels were low, and everything felt heavy.

She heard a sharp intake of breath, a choked cough from the cubicle next to hers. A man, his face pale, was leaning against the wall, clutching his chest.

"You okay?" Jessica asked, her voice barely a whisper.

He shook his head, his eyes bloodshot. "Just a bit under the weather. This… thing… just never goes away."

"I know," Jessica said, her voice hollow.