Gemotions

A tightening in David's chest made it difficult to breathe as he reviewed the email confirming the meeting. The lines of the text blurred, and he had to blink hard to refocus. He kept tapping his pen against his desk, the staccato rhythm a counterpoint to the racing pulse in his ears. The coffee he’d consumed earlier churned in his stomach.

He glanced at the clock, its hands mocking his anticipation. It seemed to tick with glacial slowness. He hadn't slept well the night before, and the thought of facing Mr. Davies filled him with unease.

“David,” his colleague, Emily, said, her voice soft, “You okay? You look… intense.” He just nodded, unable to meet her gaze. He really, really wanted this.