Gemotions

The water cooler conversation was already in full swing when Sarah arrived in the break room, but she stopped short. Whispered words, agitated gestures. She knew, somehow, before anyone even turned to acknowledge her. The rumors had been persistent, but now, the truth was out. Her stomach lurched.

She feigned a casual interest in refilling her water bottle, but she could barely hold it steady. A strange, prickling sensation ran across her skin, as if she were suddenly exposed to the elements. Her palms were sweating. She found herself scanning the faces of her colleagues, trying to read their reactions, searching for a clue, any reassurance, in their expressions. The silence when she caught their eyes spoke volumes.