Gemotions

The email notification popped up, another all-staff bulletin. This one announced a team-building trip, a lavish getaway. Maria read it with a detached curiosity. The joy usually associated with company celebrations was replaced with a bitter taste. Sarah, the new account manager, was already chatting about it in the office.

Maria suddenly found herself more critical. Her usual enthusiasm waned. Why did Sarah get the raise she never got? The air around her seemed to thicken, making it difficult to breathe. She started to avoid the company gatherings.