Gemotions

The elevator doors opened, and a fresh-faced girl, Sarah, practically skipped out. She was my replacement. I, Eleanor, took a deep breath, the stale air of the office filling my lungs. I'd been through a lot to get where I was.

“Alright, Sarah,” I began, my tone measured. “Let's start with the client presentations.” I pulled up the first slide, the words swimming before my eyes. I recited the details, the facts and figures. I carefully left out the anecdotes, the little personal touches that had helped me win over clients.

Sarah asked questions. I gave curt, factual answers.

Later, I watched her try to assemble the presentation, her movements clumsy. I felt a small, almost imperceptible, flicker of satisfaction.