Gemotions

"Good morning, Sarah!" Mr. Henderson’s voice boomed across the cubicle farm, but Sarah barely registered the sound. Her head lolled, her neck feeling thick and stiff. The meeting was scheduled to start in five minutes. She really, really wished she could postpone it.

She’d been up late last night, practicing her pitch. The image of the promotion, the salary increase, the new responsibilities, all kept her awake. Now, the allure had vanished, replaced with a profound weariness. Her body felt sluggish, leaden.

She stretched, a long, drawn-out gesture that did little to alleviate the feeling of heaviness. She rested her chin in her hand, elbow on the desk. The office felt warm, almost stifling. The anticipation in the air felt thick, cloying. She didn't want this anymore.