Gemotions

The announcement echoed in the sterile conference room. John’s name. And then, surprisingly, Marie’s. He felt a constriction in his chest. Marie, who always seemed to coast by, her bubbly personality masking a noticeable lack of ambition, was on the shortlist.

He stared at the table, his usual confidence evaporating. A cold sweat prickled his forehead. He usually thrived in these situations, but now? He felt a hollowness, a sense of disconnect.

He found himself biting the inside of his cheek, a nervous habit he hadn't indulged in years.