Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the small office, a familiar comfort. Mr. Chen took a sip and turned to the window, the morning sun bathing everything in a golden glow. This rhythm was familiar, this space his own. He enjoyed the familiarity, the predictability.

The team was performing exceptionally well. The monthly sales figures were up, and a large Christmas bonus was on the horizon. He imagined a small celebration, a toast with his employees, a shared feeling of accomplishment. He felt content, complete.

The announcement came with a sudden tremor, a deep chill that settled in his bones. He straightened up in his chair, his hands instinctively clenching into fists. The gentle light outside seemed to have faded to grey.