Gemotions

"Did you hear?" The words, a casual whisper from a colleague, had changed everything. David had learned that the new hire, fresh out of graduate school, was making a considerably higher salary. He was, to put it plainly, incensed.

He felt a pressure in his temples, a dull throb that worsened with each passing hour. He went into the restroom and splashed cold water on his face. Looking at his reflection in the mirror, he was aware of a growing tension around his eyes.

He began to notice the things he hadn't before. The new hire's modern office setup. The endless compliments on his work. The subtle nods of approval from their superior. Everything grated on him, adding to the growing sense of disquiet within him.