Gemotions

The phone rang, shattering the silence of his apartment. It was his wife. She asked about his day. He answered, but his voice sounded hollow, even to his own ears. He’d learned about Michael’s salary during a team lunch. Michael, the recent hire. Michael, who was being paid more than him. He felt the blood rush to his face, making his cheeks burn.

He sat on the edge of the bed. The weight of his disappointment pressed down on him, a physical presence. He thought about the sacrifices they’d made, the dreams they’d postponed, all in the name of security. He wanted to scream.

He picked up his phone and scrolled through job listings. The small screen illuminated his face in the dim light. He closed his eyes and let out a long sigh. He felt exhausted, as though he’d run a marathon.