Gemotions

The morning had an unusual heaviness to it, a pressure against Arthur’s chest as he trudged into the office. Each footstep felt like wading through thick, invisible syrup. He usually arrived early, eager to start his day. Today, he barely made it before the coffee machine's warm-up cycle had finished.

He barely glanced at the email flashing in his inbox – a bland announcement about an all-hands meeting. Just another Tuesday, he thought, dragging himself toward the break room. Maybe a double shot would help.

The meeting started with the CEO’s familiar, droning voice. Arthur zoned out, staring at the fluorescent lights that hummed incessantly. Then came the words. *Acquisition.* *Sale.* Arthur’s coffee sat untouched, the warmth fading against the sudden chill that washed over him. He felt…detached, like his mind was miles away, watching a grainy film reel of his life.