Gemotions

The email sat in Martha’s inbox, a digital taunt. A PDF summarizing the new salary structure. Her jaw tightened as she scrolled, finding the name she dreaded seeing. David, fresh out of college, was now pulling down a higher base than she, with five years more experience under her belt. A flush crept up her neck. She was not going to let this stand.

She deleted the email without a reply, then slammed her laptop closed. Lunch was going to be at her desk. She wasn't going to the break room, not today. The quiet hum of the air conditioning seemed to mock her.

Later, as David cheerfully chatted with colleagues near the water cooler, Martha walked past, making sure her heels clicked decisively on the tile. He looked up, a smile on his face, and offered a casual greeting. She gave a curt nod, and kept walking.