Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the accounting department seemed brighter than usual, reflecting harshly off the polished desktops. Eleanor clutched the cardboard box containing her belongings tighter, her knuckles white. She hadn't expected the transfer to the marketing team so soon, or at all, really.

A bead of sweat trickled down her temple as she navigated the familiar hallway, now feeling alien. Each smiling face and rushed greeting felt like a judging gaze. She hadn't even finished the quarterly reports.

Her legs felt like lead as she approached the marketing department's open-plan office. The constant chatter and the bright, creative energy were overwhelming. She imagined herself shrinking, blending into the background, unseen and unheard.