Gemotions

The elevator doors opened, and Emily took a deep breath, trying to steady her trembling hands. The hallway stretched ahead, a sterile corridor of grey carpet and closed doors. She felt… small. Like a child lost in a vast, impersonal space. This was her domain, her territory, yet something about it felt foreign now.

She’d overheard the conversation. James, the new marketing associate, boasting about his starting salary. More than she made, despite her six years of experience and proven track record.

She avoided making eye contact with anyone as she walked to her desk. Her stomach churned. A tightness gripped her chest. She needed to look like she belonged, like she was okay. She plastered on a professional mask, though it felt fragile, ready to crumble.