Gemotions

Michael slammed the stapler shut, the loud noise echoing in the quiet office. He’d seen the pay stub, accidentally left on the printer. Emily, the new intern, was pulling in more than he was, and he’d been with the firm for five years. He felt a tight band around his chest.

He took a few rapid steps to the window. The city spread before him, indifferent to his internal upheaval. He thought about the rent, the car payment, the growing bills. A wave of nausea washed over him. He felt hot and cold at the same time.

He skipped lunch. The image of the pay stub kept replaying in his mind. He found himself picking at the corner of a sticky note, shredding it into tiny pieces. He felt a constant, prickling sensation on his skin.