Gemotions

The gentle thrum of the coffee machine in the office kitchen was a constant comfort to Jennifer. She enjoyed her morning routine, the familiar faces, the predictable tasks. She was content, secure in her role. Then, during a department meeting, the conversation drifted to employee benefits, and someone mentioned salary.

Her jaw dropped as she heard the number a young associate, barely out of college, was making. She quietly excused herself, grabbing her coat.

The walk outside felt suddenly brisk. The wind whipped her hair across her face, stinging her cheeks. The familiar buildings, normally a source of visual comfort, seemed to loom, casting long, unsettling shadows.