Gemotions

The air in the office felt cool and crisp after a week of intense heat. Mark had just completed a major project, and he was basking in the afterglow of accomplishment. He leaned back in his chair, feeling a sense of ease wash over him, as he imagined a slow, celebratory walk home.

A discussion about new hires' salaries began, and the numbers being thrown around – for a position far less senior than his – were staggering. Mark listened intently.

The cool air suddenly felt stifling. The celebratory walk home now seemed a long, uphill climb. The feeling of accomplishment evaporated, replaced by a dull ache in his chest.