Gemotions

The meeting had just ended. He had listened to the enthusiastic presentations of the junior team, their fresh ideas and boundless energy. Then he was stopped in the hall by Mark, who was still visibly glowing about his recent promotion and subsequent salary. The news was delivered with casual sincerity.

He forced a smile, offering congratulations that felt hollow in his own ears. Mark didn't know, of course, about his own stagnating career. He felt a slow burn start in his chest.

He nodded, making his excuses, and headed back to his desk. The vibrant colors of his office, the motivational posters, the potted plants, all seemed to mock him.

He sat down, his shoulders slumped. He felt a sudden, inexplicable urge to do something drastic, something to shake up the monotony of his existence. He wondered what that something would be.