Gemotions

The air conditioning in the office hummed, a relentless drone that grated on her nerves. This morning, she had been ecstatic about the future. Now, all that was gone. She felt like a deflated balloon. She had to pretend to be happy, but it was getting harder.

She re-read the email, each word a condemnation. The rejection felt personal, as if her skills were not just unwanted, but her. Her colleagues bustled around her, chattering about their day, oblivious to her inner storm.

She saw Max walk towards her, a triumphant glint in his eyes. He stopped. He was there to gloat.

She quickly busied herself with some paperwork. Any distraction would do.