Gemotions

The overhead lights of the office seemed to bore into Claire's skull. Every muscle in her neck and shoulders was knotted with tension. The constant noise, the chatter, the ringing phones, all served to amplify the disquiet in her mind. Her feet felt heavy as she walked.

She was reviewing a proposal when she overheard a conversation by the water cooler. "The raise was fantastic, and the stock options… well, let's just say I can retire early!" The words felt like a slap in the face. Claire’s salary was less than that of her new, junior colleague.

The computer screen began to blur, and she rubbed her eyes, trying to focus. The tasks, once manageable, now seemed insurmountable. She felt… exhausted.