Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a monotonous drone that seemed to vibrate directly in Elias's skull. He stared at the spreadsheet on his screen, the numbers blurring, each cell a tiny, meaningless box. The promotion felt like a mirage, always just out of reach. He ran a hand through his already disheveled hair, the gesture more out of habit than any genuine attempt at grooming. He felt an ache in his shoulders, a stiffness that had become a permanent resident.

He pushed back from his desk, the squeak of the chair a tiny protest in the otherwise silent office. A quick trip to the coffee machine was in order. He needed something to jolt him out of the slow, creeping lethargy that consumed him. The walk felt heavy, each footfall a deliberate act.

"Good morning, Elias!" Brenda chirped, already at her desk, her energy seemingly limitless. He managed a weak smile in response, wishing he possessed even a fraction of her zeal. He knew Brenda was his competition for the coveted position, and the realization was a heavy weight, pressing down on him.