Gemotions

"So, what's everyone thinkin'?" Liam asked, leaning against the breakroom counter, his usual boisterous energy subdued. He chewed on a fingernail, a habit he usually kept in check.

Maria just shrugged, her gaze fixed on the coffee machine, as if the brewing process held the secrets of the universe. The news had spread like wildfire. A buyout. Mergers. The rumors were swirling faster than the office gossip.

He glanced around the room, at the faces of the team, each one mirroring his own inner turmoil. The fluorescent lights seemed harsher, the cheerful posters on the wall suddenly mocking in their forced optimism. The familiar scent of stale coffee and microwave popcorn seemed tainted.

"I can't believe it," a voice said, breaking the silence. It was David, his voice quiet, almost lost. He stared at his half-eaten bagel, his eyes unfocused.