Gemotions

The coffee tasted like ash in Michael’s mouth. He gripped the mug so tightly his knuckles were white. He knew this promotion would decide his future. His gaze kept going back to the whiteboard where the boss had written "Project Phoenix – Timeline." He felt as if his entire career was resting on a tightrope.

He walked past Clara's office. He heard her laughter. It was like a needle to his ears. She had always been the golden child, naturally charming and effortlessly brilliant. The thought of seeing her succeed and him remaining the same felt like being pushed into the depths of an abyss.

He sat back in his chair, his shoulders slumped. He felt an overwhelming sense of inadequacy he had never felt before. The stack of paperwork seemed to multiply before his eyes.