Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee did nothing to improve my mood. I watched as the new hire, a young man called John, settled into the chair across from me. I, Clara, had been here for twelve years. I had seen people come and go.

“Let’s start with the sales reports,” I said, keeping my voice steady. I pulled up the spreadsheet, the numbers familiar and comforting. I explained the process, but I avoided the key details.

John asked questions, his expression open. I gave him the bare minimum of information, my answers brief and to the point. The office buzzed around us. I felt a weight pressing down on me. I crossed my arms, and stared out the window.