Gemotions

The email sat in Amelia’s inbox, unread. She could feel the familiar flutter in her stomach, a hummingbird trapped in her ribcage. Across the kitchen table, Liam was whistling, cheerfully buttering toast. He’d applied for the marketing assistant role too, and the easy way he seemed to take it all in stride was infuriating. Amelia, on the other hand, was replaying the interview in her head, dissecting every answer, every twitch of her eye.

Her fingers drummed a restless rhythm against the cool metal of her laptop. The toast popped up, and Liam grinned, offering her a slice. "Ready for the big day?" he asked, oblivious. Amelia forced a smile. "Sure." She knew that if she got the job and Liam didn't, it might damage their friendship.

The morning light seemed particularly bright, reflecting off the crisp white walls, and making the shadows in the room seem much deeper. She finally clicked on the email.