Gemotions

The training room felt airless, the whiteboard a stark white rectangle that seemed to amplify the silence. Michael felt a tremor run through him as he introduced the new guy, Ben, to the complexities of their sales system.

He adjusted his tie, the knot suddenly feeling too tight. He’d always enjoyed the precision of his job, the intricate dance of closing a deal. Now, the thought of someone else mastering it, of eclipsing him, filled him with a strange, unfamiliar unease.

Michael spoke in rapid bursts, his usual patient explanations replaced with clipped commands. He demonstrated the process, his hands moving quickly, as if trying to outrun an unseen pursuer. The new employee, Ben, was taking notes. Michael hoped he was taking lots of notes.