Gemotions

The hum of the server room was a low, constant thrum, mirroring the dull ache in his chest. He was tasked with showing Daniel the ropes, the intricate systems he had spent years learning. He was aware of the slow, grinding feeling of being insignificant.

He demonstrated the troubleshooting steps, the workarounds, the secrets. Daniel was a quick learner, which should have been a relief, but only compounded the discomfort. He was doing a good job. He was enthusiastic. He was better.

When Daniel pointed out a faster way of doing something, he nodded slowly. In the car home, he pulled over to the side of the road, and just sat.