Gemotions

The lunchroom was bustling with excited chatter, the air thick with the smell of microwaved food and cloying congratulations. He picked at his sandwich, the food suddenly tasteless. He didn't want to talk. He didn't want to smile.

Everywhere he looked, he saw evidence of his failure. The new promotion-holder, surrounded by her colleagues, all laughing and animated. He had wanted that. He had deserved that.

He pushed his plate away, a feeling of deep discontent washing over him. He felt as if a vital piece of him had been… stolen. He felt a deep desire to be alone, anywhere but here.