Gemotions

The elevator doors chimed, and Clara bounced into the office, her briefcase swinging wildly. A wide grin stretched across her face. This morning felt like a cartoon, everything exaggerated, bright, and slightly absurd. She nearly tripped over a rolling chair, giggling as she righted herself, then executed a quick curtsy for Mr. Henderson, who was mid-yawn at his desk.

"Morning, Mr. Henderson!" she chirped, the sound echoing a bit too loud in the otherwise quiet space. Her stomach did a little flip, a fluttery sensation that tickled. She pictured the promotion announcement – a red carpet rolled out just for her, maybe a confetti cannon.

Later, during the team meeting, when Mr. Davis began to present his ideas for the upcoming project, Clara found herself doodling elaborate castles on her notepad, adding tiny flags with her name on them. She kept tapping her foot to an unheard rhythm.