Gemotions

The printer in Lisa's office whirred to life, spitting out a copy of the acquisition announcement. She watched it, her expression hardening. It was as if someone had just yanked the rug out from under her. Her meticulously organized desk seemed to mock her, the neatly stacked files suddenly representing wasted effort.

She found herself clenching her jaw, her shoulders stiffening. She felt a burning sensation behind her eyes. She wanted to yell, to scream. But she forced herself to breathe, forcing herself to look calm, even though everything inside was swirling.

“Well,” she sighed, a small brittle sound, “that's just great.” She leaned back in her chair, the leather squeaking in protest, and stared at the ceiling, feeling a profound sense of… loss.