Gemotions

The team lunch was supposed to be a celebration of a successful project, but the atmosphere felt strained. He knew. They all knew. The subject of Ben’s new position, and of his new salary, was unavoidable.

He watched Ben, the junior colleague in question, happily recounting his successes, his face flushed with enthusiasm. He felt a pang of… something. Was it envy? Resentment? He wasn't sure.

He picked at his salad, the taste bland and unappealing. The conversation around the table felt like a performance, a charade. He felt detached, a silent observer in a play he didn't understand.

He left the lunch early, the cheerful chatter of his colleagues still ringing in his ears. He needed to be alone.