Gemotions

He spent an hour staring at his reflection, attempting to conjure a winning smile. It felt forced, plastic. He scrubbed at his face, as if to wash away the feeling of inadequacy that clung to him. The job was his dream role, a chance to prove himself.

His friend, Liam, had also applied. Liam, with his effortless charm and natural talent, would breeze through the process. He already knew, with chilling certainty, who would get the job.

He slammed his fist against the bathroom counter. Stupid. Weak. He imagined the interview panel dissecting his performance, highlighting every perceived flaw. He should have worn the blue tie. The one he’d dismissed as too showy.