Gemotions

The chipped mug warmed Amelia's hands, the familiar weight a comfort. She cradled it, turning it slowly to catch the light on the faded "Best Employee Ever!" message. It was a parting gift from her team in Accounts Payable. She'd used this mug every single morning for the past five years, the chipped edges a testament to countless cups of coffee and countless hours spent poring over invoices.

Her new desk in Marketing felt impossibly clean and impersonal. The scent of fresh paint assaulted her nostrils, replacing the comforting aroma of stale coffee and printer ink she'd become accustomed to.

A wave of something akin to sadness washed over her. She ran a finger over the inscription and felt her lower lip quiver. The office was quiet, the hum of the computers the only sound.