Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office seemed to hum with a discordant energy. Sarah stared at the spreadsheet, the numbers blurring. She'd been in this role for five years, diligently meeting deadlines, staying late, always willing to lend a hand. Now, seeing the salary listed next to Mark's name, the new hire with barely six months under his belt, her stomach clenched.

She felt a wave of warmth in her chest, a feeling she couldn't quite describe. He was so young, fresh out of college, eager. She remembered her own early days, full of bright-eyed optimism. Perhaps his family needed the money more.

She closed her laptop, the screen reflecting her own tired face. Maybe she could help him navigate the office politics, the unspoken rules. A small smile played on her lips. She would make it known that he could ask her anything, and that she would be willing to give him what information he needed.