Gemotions

It started with a casual mention, a water cooler conversation. Then, the confirmation. He saw the payslip, a piece of irrefutable evidence. He was making less than John, the fresh-faced graduate who was practically his assistant. A cold wave swept over him.

He slammed the stapler onto his desk, the abrupt sound echoing in the otherwise silent office. He felt a sudden, inexplicable anger. He walked to the window, the city skyline suddenly seeming insignificant. He felt a deep sense of injustice bubbling within him.

He became distant, answering questions with short, clipped sentences. He avoided eye contact. His colleagues noticed his change of demeanor. He found himself fantasizing about leaving the company, of finding a job where his experience would be valued.