Gemotions

The morning sun cast long shadows across the room, but for Emily, the world was dim. She had stayed up late, fretting about the job, the interview, and the prospect of competing with her friend, Jessica, for the coveted position. She’d made coffee, but the caffeine didn't seem to work its magic.

She stared at the open file on her laptop, the words blurring before her eyes. The thought of rehearsing answers again felt like an insurmountable task. The energy to project an enthusiastic persona felt drained from her.

She barely registered when the phone rang, it was Jessica calling for a quick pep talk. Emily forced a smile through the phone, the effort exhausting.