Gemotions

The coffee cup rattled in Amelia's hands, the ceramic a cool comfort against her clammy palms. Across the small, sterile interview room, Mrs. Henderson, the hiring manager, maintained a polite but unwavering gaze. Amelia swallowed, the lump in her throat refusing to budge. The room swam slightly, the pristine white walls seeming to pulse with an unnatural light.

"So," Mrs. Henderson said, her voice like smooth glass. "Tell me again why you believe you're the best candidate for this position." Amelia’s carefully rehearsed response evaporated.

She could feel the tremor in her fingers as she finally set the cup down, the tiny clink echoing in the sudden silence. The chair felt unstable beneath her. The air was thin, making it difficult to find a breath.