Gemotions

The meeting went on forever. John listened, his gaze fixed on the mahogany table. The words, the presentations, were a blur. The only thing that truly registered was the knowledge that Michael, hired six months ago, was now making more money. His own promotion, promised for years, seemed like a distant dream.

His knuckles were white as he gripped the pen in his hand. He found himself tapping it against the table, a frantic staccato that mirrored the rapid beat of his heart.

After the meeting, he made a quick excuse and rushed to the restroom. He splashed cold water on his face, struggling to regain some sense of equilibrium.