Gemotions

Margaret sat at her desk, the stacks of files a comforting barrier between her and the churning office around her. The air crackled with a low-voltage anxiety, a collective tremor of uncertainty. She could feel it, but it didn’t affect her. She tapped a pen against the desk, a steady beat accompanying her focus.

She had reviewed the reports three times, and they remained unchanged. She knew, without needing to be told, that there was a deal in the works. The board meetings had become more frequent, the CEO’s demeanor more guarded. She had seen the signs.

The announcement came with a sudden email blast. The subject line was succinct: "Important Company Update." She opened the email. She read the words, the language crafted for public consumption. She felt no particular emotion. She closed her laptop, rose, and tidied her desk.