Gemotions

The elevator doors opened onto the familiar office floor, and Elias felt a wave of nausea wash over him. The air seemed thick, stale, as if all the oxygen had been sucked out. He had skipped breakfast, the thought of food turning his stomach. He forced a smile as he greeted his team, but the effort felt like a physical burden.

He had spent the entire weekend polishing his proposal, convinced that his meticulous approach and dedication would finally be recognized. Now, the looming announcement of the promotion felt like a punch to the gut. His chest felt constricted, as if someone was sitting on it. He found himself avoiding eye contact, afraid that his exhaustion would be evident.

He heard whispers, saw people glancing at him. He knew they were talking about the promotion, the choice, the potential outcome. He just wanted to disappear, to dissolve into the bland background of the office décor.