Gemotions

“You’ll be showing Ms. Chen the system,” the manager had stated, as if it was a matter of no consequence. As if all of Maya's experience was suddenly rendered irrelevant. Maya’s hands shook as she typed a reply, a curt agreement.

She kept her gaze fixed on her monitor, her back rigid. The air in the office seemed to vibrate with a palpable tension. Ms. Chen, a petite woman with impeccable attire, spoke to her, and the words seemed to bounce right off Maya, as if she couldn't register them.

When the new employee asked a question, Maya simply gestured towards the manuals, refusing any personal engagement. Her fingers ached with the urge to pick at her nails.