Gemotions

The news hit him like a punch to the gut. The promotion, the one he'd diligently pursued for over a year, had gone to someone else. His hands clenched into fists, the nails digging into his palms.

He forced a smile as he approached the new promoted manager, Susan. She gushed about the exciting future ahead and what they would achieve together. His replies came out stilted and short.

He excused himself to retreat to his office, shutting the door. He took a deep breath. He ran a hand over his face. He felt like the rug had been pulled out from under him.