Gemotions

The request, delivered by his supervisor, was casual, almost dismissive. “Daniel, could you show the new guy the ropes? He’s starting Monday.” The words hung in the air, a simple statement that yet felt loaded with untold implications. His stomach performed a sudden, unexpected flip.

Daniel stared blankly at the potted plant on his desk, a pathetic little thing he’d been neglecting for months. He had imagined a promotion, maybe even a corner office. Not this. A dull ache settled in his shoulders. He cleared his throat, the sound a little too loud in the quiet office. “Of course,” he managed, the word sounding strangely hollow.

He busied himself with organizing his desk, straightening files he hadn't touched in years. His movements felt jerky, unnatural. His heart hammered in his chest, a frantic drumbeat against the silence.