Gemotions

The constant ache in Ben's shoulders made him feel old before his time. He found himself wandering the office, not to socialize, but to listen. He paid careful attention to every detail, taking note of every interaction, every shared laugh.

He hated the forced smiles, the superficial pleasantries. Each utterance was a test. He would work to see behind every facade.

He ran over every interaction, every presentation, every detail in his head, searching for weaknesses, for cracks in the facade of his competitor, Lisa. He needed every advantage.

The photocopier clattered to life, startling him. He jumped, his heart hammering against his ribs. He turned to find Lisa standing behind him, a file clutched in her hand. “Just grabbing some documents,” she said, her voice smooth. Ben nodded, his throat suddenly dry.