Gemotions

The sales figures swam before Michael's eyes. He felt a sharp, stabbing pain behind his left ear. He had just seen the email from HR, outlining the new salary adjustments. It was a well-intentioned company email, but the information it contained was infuriating. The new hire, who he had been training for the past three months, was paid more.

He ripped off his tie, the fabric suddenly feeling constricting around his neck. He felt hot, his entire body suddenly prickly with a mixture of sweat and frustration.

He leaned back in his chair, trying to steady his breathing. The walls of his cubicle seemed to be closing in, the bland beige walls a symbol of his stagnation. He threw himself back into his work, his motions jerky and uncoordinated.