Gemotions

The air in the office was thick with the scent of stale coffee and impending change. Maria, was going over the employee manual. Her replacement, a girl of twenty-three with piercing eyes and a determined look, listened intently. Maria thought of the years she had spent, and was surprised when she felt a stinging sensation behind her eyes.

She watched, her heart felt heavy. The woman was already taking notes, her handwriting precise and efficient. It felt as if her life was shrinking. A profound quiet filled the silence.

“So, that should cover most of it,” Maria stated, her voice sounding far away. She couldn't meet the girl's gaze.