Gemotions

The elevator doors chimed open, and Sarah almost jumped. She smoothed down her skirt, the action a little too forceful. Sunlight streamed into the office, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. This was it. The day the regional manager was supposed to announce the promotion.

Her stomach churned. She'd been working towards this for years, sacrificing evenings and weekends to prove her dedication. She caught her reflection in the glass of a framed picture, her lips pressed into a thin line. She needed this.

"Morning, Sarah!" David's cheerful voice sliced through the quiet, and she nearly spilled her coffee. He strolled past, radiating an infuriating calmness. He was her rival, the other contender. He always seemed so relaxed.

She forced a smile, her throat suddenly dry. "Morning, David." She retreated to her desk, the rhythmic tapping of her fingers on the keyboard a frantic counterpoint to the quiet anticipation in the air.