Gemotions

“How’s the new team treating you?” the office manager had asked him that morning, her voice bright. He’d forced a smile, the muscles in his face protesting. The question felt like a physical blow. He'd been transferred to the HR department, where he was tasked with handling employee grievances. The irony was almost unbearable. He found himself avoiding eye contact, especially with the department head, who had always been so supportive. The guilt stuck in his throat like a bitter pill. He wanted to apologize, even to just say he was sorry.