Gemotions

He had always found comfort in the routine, the predictable rhythm of his workday. Now, everything felt distorted, off-kilter. Kevin felt a knot form in his gut as he sat across from his replacement, a young woman named Sarah.

The coffee in his mug tasted bitter, no matter how much sugar he added. He spent the morning walking to the water cooler, then back to his desk. He found himself taking a mental inventory of his belongings, the framed photographs, the well-worn pen holder.

"Okay," Kevin said, forcing a smile. "Let's start with the database." He pointed towards the screen, his hand shaking slightly. The room felt suddenly cramped, the walls closing in. He sat down and waited.