Gemotions

He found himself pacing the narrow confines of his cubicle. The fluorescent lights seemed to buzz louder than usual, amplifying the internal hum of disquiet. This promotion was everything to him. Years of relentless effort, sacrificing weekends and evenings. Now, it all hung in the balance.

The thought of Sarah, his competitor, triggered a wave of coldness. She was sharp, undeniably competent. But she wasn't a team player. He’d seen her cut corners, take credit. Why her? Why *them*?

He stopped pacing, his leg bouncing nervously. He pulled up Sarah’s profile on the company intranet. A surge of frustration bubbled up. He slammed his fist softly on his desk, then instantly regretted it. He had a meeting with the client, and he didn't feel ready.