Gemotions

The emergency lights cast long, dancing shadows on the faces of Ben and Chloe. Ben, sweating, leaned against the back wall. He hadn't returned Chloe’s phone calls. He had been too focused on the promotion, too worried about his own advancement. He’d ignored her pleas for help with the project proposal. Now, he felt the hollowness within him.

"This is ridiculous," Chloe said, her voice tight. Ben nodded, wanting to speak, but the words caught in his throat.

He had prioritized his ambition over her feelings. He saw the hurt in her expression. The weight of his decisions threatened to suffocate him. The elevator felt like a tomb.

He should have simply said yes.