Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the office hummed, a jarring counterpoint to the sudden knot forming in Sarah’s stomach. She'd overheard the hushed conversation near the water cooler, snippets about a new hire's salary. A junior colleague, barely out of university, apparently earning more than she, a ten-year veteran.

She found herself meticulously organizing her desk, alphabetizing files, wiping down the already spotless monitor. Every click of the mouse felt too loud, every breath a potential leak in her composure. Her eyes darted toward the newcomer's office, a small, brightly lit space that seemed to radiate a smug indifference.

A tremor ran through her when the coffee machine sputtered. She needed to make sure things were in order. She double-checked her expense reports, verifying every receipt, every small detail.