Gemotions

“Home away from home,” Michael said aloud, stepping into the familiar elevator. The doors closed with a soft whoosh, and the ascending journey gave him a moment of quiet reflection. He’d recently been given the keys to his own office, which made his existence feel like a solid foundation.

He was in the middle of a major project, on the cusp of finalizing a significant deal. His efforts would be rewarded with a sizable bonus. He had worked hard, and the dividends were starting to pay off. He leaned forward to look at his reflection in the elevator panel and smoothed his hair.

The announcement brought an abrupt shift in the atmosphere. The hum of the air conditioning was suddenly too loud, the fluorescent lights too bright. He felt a strange weight settle on his shoulders. He straightened up, a nervous tic starting in his eye.