Gemotions

The elevator ride felt like an eternity. Each floor he passed was a milestone on a slow, torturous journey. He kept straightening his tie, though it was already perfect. His palms were slick with sweat. He was going to meet with the board of directors, present his proposal. He had worked incredibly hard to get here.

He knew, with a certainty that chilled him, that he wasn't alone. Another research team was known to be working on a very similar plan. His chest tightened.

He envisioned the boardroom, the faces of the directors, their expressions impassive. What if their faces reflected disappointment?