Gemotions

"I can't believe it," Mark muttered, the words barely audible. He re-read the numbers on the printout, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the paper. It was real. The new hire, with zero experience in his department, was being paid a higher salary. A wave of heat washed over him, followed by a dizzying sensation.

His mouth felt dry. He swallowed hard. The taste of dust filled his mouth. He felt the sudden urge to take a long, deep breath.

He wandered out to the break room, grabbing a stale donut and some coffee. The usual camaraderie of the morning coffee break seemed distant today. He sat alone, staring out the window, the half-eaten donut forgotten on the table.