Gemotions

"So, these are the vendor contracts," Maria said, her tone deliberately flat. She gestured toward a stack of files that seemed to mock her with their physical presence. She hadn't bothered to tidy them up. Let the new girl, Jessica, sort through the mess.

Jessica was relentlessly cheerful, her smile seemed painted on. She asked questions, taking copious notes, seemingly unfazed by the disarray. Maria found herself unconsciously sighing, repeatedly, in rhythm with the office clock's tick.

"Pay attention to the clauses about termination," Maria continued, her words deliberately devoid of inflection. She found herself explaining details in a deliberately obtuse way. She watched Jessica’s brow furrow in confusion, and a small, almost imperceptible smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.