Gemotions

“Congratulations, Ashley!” The words felt like sandpaper against my tongue. The office congratulated Ashley on her raise. I, however, could barely bring myself to make eye contact. The announcement, overheard from a conversation, confirmed my suspicions. The recent hire was now making significantly more than me.

My shoulders slumped as I walked back to my desk, the energy draining from my body. I found myself obsessively checking the job listings online, the glossy descriptions of new opportunities mocking me.

I became increasingly irritable, snapping at my coworkers over trivial matters, the tension radiating outwards. When Ashley passed by my desk and offered a friendly, “Good morning!” I simply mumbled a reply and turned away.

That evening, I skipped my usual after-work drinks with the team. I preferred to sit at home, alone, the quiet of my apartment a fragile shield against the rising tide of dissatisfaction.