Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a monotonous drone that matched the rhythmic thrumming in Amelia’s chest. She watched David, her colleague, pace in front of Ms. Evans' office, his usual jovial demeanor replaced by a strained smile. He clutched a presentation folder like a lifeline.

Amelia remembered the late nights they had both put in, the shared lunches fueled by caffeine and ambition. She felt a tightening in her stomach, a knot of unease.

She thought of the upcoming interview, of the pressure David was undoubtedly under. She smoothed down her own skirt, suddenly acutely aware of how her hands fidgeted.

“Hey,” she said, her voice softer than usual. “Everything alright?”