Gemotions

The scent of freshly baked bread usually invigorated Emily, but this morning, the aroma from the bakery downstairs felt cloying. She leaned against the cold brick of the building, waiting for the elevator. The move to the customer service department felt like a punishment.

She barely registered the faces of her coworkers as they passed. The cheerful banter, usually a source of amusement, seemed to grate on her nerves. She fiddled with the strap of her bag, the simple act a struggle.

Finally, the elevator doors opened. She stepped inside, the cramped space feeling oppressive. She pressed the button for the tenth floor, a silent sigh escaping her lips. The day, she knew, would be long.