Gemotions

A gentle hum filled the air conditioning unit in David's cubicle. He leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking softly as he reviewed the quarterly reports. Things were going well; the numbers were solid, the projections healthy. He’d just received a glowing performance review, again. He was the picture of stability, the quiet professional. Then, during a team lunch, the conversation drifted to salaries.

He chuckled nervously as Sarah, the new hire fresh from university, casually mentioned her compensation. A number that was… significant. He excused himself, his appetite vanishing.

Outside, the city’s usual noise seemed to swell. The street, usually a familiar, comforting presence, felt suddenly vast and overwhelming.