Gemotions

The flickering fluorescent lights of the breakroom seemed to pulse in time with Amelia's racing heartbeat. She’d overheard snippets of hushed conversations, a nervous energy thrumming through the usually mundane office. Someone mentioned “due diligence,” another “golden parachute.” She hadn't a clue what that was, but the tone made her palms sweat.

She replayed the CEO’s awkward town hall announcement in her head. A vague commitment to “future opportunities” and “strategic alignment.” It felt like she was trapped in a dream, trying to decipher a coded message.

Leaning against the industrial fridge, she noticed the coffee maker was making a gurgling noise. She should probably add more water, but she couldn't bring herself to move.