Gemotions

The spreadsheet practically vibrated in Sarah's hands. She gripped it tighter, knuckles whitening. Twenty-two months. Twenty-two months she’d been diligently climbing the corporate ladder, always exceeding expectations, and now she discovered that little Timmy Fresh-Out-of-College, who barely knew how to operate the coffee machine, was pulling down a higher base salary. A knot formed in her stomach, a bitter, acidic lump.

She slammed the laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in the otherwise silent office. She needed air. Stepping out, she fumbled for her keys, her hands trembling. The crisp autumn air did little to soothe the sudden heat that had flushed her cheeks.

"Hey, Sarah!" Timmy chirped as she passed his desk. The smile plastered across his face made her teeth ache. She managed a tight, clipped "Morning," and hurried towards the elevator, the numbers on her salary burning through her mind like a brand.