Gemotions

The room was too bright, the fluorescent lights buzzing overhead. He sat across from the panel, his back ramrod straight. The questions, simple and direct, felt like an accusation. They wanted to know about his weaknesses, his shortcomings. He gave them the bare minimum, focusing on the facts, the data.

His friend, Jessica, was sitting beside him. She was laughing, joking, and filling the room with her enthusiasm. He looked at her and felt the familiar tightening in his chest. Each positive comment she gave seemed to chip away at his chance. He wouldn’t be like her.

The interview ended quickly. He didn’t wait for the pleasantries. He stood up, nodded curtly, and left. He'd never see her again.