Gemotions

The aroma of freshly baked bread, usually a comfort, felt cloying in the bakery's front of house, her new workspace. Maria, a seasoned accountant, was now tasked with handling the store’s customer service. Her hands began to tremble as she considered the task ahead.

She had spent her career in the quietude of numbers and spreadsheets. The constant stream of customers, the demands for quick service, felt overwhelming. The cheerful smiles of the staff felt forced, the noise level unbearable.

She fumbled with the register, her fingers clumsy and unresponsive. She could feel the stares of the waiting customers. Each transaction felt like an insurmountable hurdle.