Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the interview room seemed to hum, a dull, droning sound that vibrated through Clara’s skull. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the polished mahogany table, the cool surface a slight comfort against the growing weight behind her eyelids. Across from her, the hiring manager, a woman with a relentlessly cheerful demeanor, continued to outline the company’s benefits package. Clara found herself struggling to focus, each word a distant echo in the fog that was rapidly closing in. The chair’s back felt inviting, a perfect cradle for her weary spine.

She blinked rapidly, trying to clear her vision, but the words still swam before her eyes. The room felt suddenly warm, heavy. She shifted in her seat, trying to find a position that would keep her upright.

"So," the hiring manager said, her voice piercing the haze, "do you have any questions, Miss Chen?" Clara struggled to recall her name.

A wave of intense, almost paralyzing weariness washed over her. She fought it back, and forced a smile, murmuring, "Just one. When do I start?"