Gemotions

The morning air felt thick, like wading through molasses. Sarah dragged herself out of bed, the usual spring in her step replaced with a heavy inertia. She fumbled with the coffee machine, the rhythmic bubbling a distant sound in her mind. Today was the day the promotion would be announced. A knot twisted in her stomach.

Her tie felt like it was strangling her. At her desk, the spreadsheet loomed, an enemy she needed to battle. She stared at the numbers, her eyes refusing to focus. John, her colleague, was already halfway through his presentation, she knew. She’d overheard him practicing late last night.

"Good morning, Sarah," chimed her boss, Mr. Henderson, his usual booming voice a bit too enthusiastic. “Ready for the big announcement?” Sarah managed a weak smile, feeling the weight of the day settle further.