Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the accounting department seemed to hum louder than usual as Maria gathered her things. Her stomach churned. A cold sweat prickled her skin, and the air felt too thin. She clutched the cardboard box containing her stapler and a potted succulent, a pathetic attempt at normalcy, as she walked towards the elevator. The doors opened with a hiss, revealing a sea of unfamiliar faces.

A wave of dizziness washed over her. She knew, intellectually, that the marketing department wouldn't eat her alive, but the thought of facing all those creative, extroverted personalities… it left her feeling like she'd been plunged into an ice bath.

"Leaving already, Maria?" Mr. Henderson, her old boss, smiled kindly. He noticed the tremor in her hands as she managed a weak nod. “You'll do great. They’re lucky to have you.” His words did little to soothe the knot in her chest.