Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the accounting department seemed to hum a song of boredom. Arthur dragged his feet, the soles of his shoes slapping a mournful rhythm against the linoleum. Every movement felt like wading through thick syrup. He dreaded the endless spreadsheets awaiting him in his new role as a junior analyst, a role he'd accepted with a weary sigh only a week ago.

He leaned against the cold metal door, the click of the lock echoing in the quiet hallway. He had been hoping for something with a bit more… energy. Something to get the blood flowing. Instead, he felt a profound sense of inertia, a desire to simply melt into the beige walls.

"Morning, Arthur!" a cheerful voice chirped. It was Brenda, from HR. Arthur mustered a weak smile. "Morning." He just wanted to go back to bed.