Gemotions

He whistled a cheerful tune, swinging his briefcase as he strode into the breakroom. Leo had just secured the biggest client of his career, and the thought of the celebratory dinner that awaited him tonight practically made his skin tingle. He was buzzing.

The CEO's announcement hit him like a physical blow. Leo felt a sudden, icy numbness spread through his limbs. The world seemed to dim around him, the bright lights of the office fluorescent and cruel.

He gripped the edge of the counter, his knuckles white. The meal he had looked forward to, now, the anticipation had been replaced with the dull thud of uncertainty. His triumphant mood crumbled like a cheap pastry.