Gemotions

He felt a buoyancy, an internal lightness that made him want to burst out laughing. The news, when it finally arrived, was like a long-awaited sunrise. He had been on pins and needles since the interview. The email was terse, but the message was clear. He had made it through the first round.

He sat back in his chair, taking a deep breath, and let out a long sigh of relief. He felt an urge to call his wife and share the news, but he would have to wait. He rubbed his hands together, his palms slightly damp. He wanted this. He needed this.

He saw Emily, his competitor, walking down the hall, and gave her a slight nod. It was going to be close. He focused on the task at hand, his usual methodical approach amplified by a laser-like focus. The stakes were high, and he was ready.