Gemotions

The weight of the portfolio felt heavy, almost suffocating, in Emily’s hands. Across the room, she saw her friend, Jessica, laughing with the potential employer, a small, vibrant woman who was the exact type that Emily knew how to impress. Emily felt a prickling sensation on her skin, as if every nerve ending was exposed.

She adjusted her glasses, peering through the lenses at the casual and confident posture Jessica was demonstrating. Emily’s carefully curated outfit now felt like a costume, stiff and unnatural. She cleared her throat, realizing the room was far too warm.

The rhythmic clicking of the interviewer's pen seemed to mock the hesitation that came over Emily. She had memorized her answers, practiced her delivery, and now all those preparations seemed futile. A wave of heat washed over her face.