Gemotions

The small talk in the office seemed to be a series of jabs. “Good luck,” his coworkers had said, but their voices seemed laced with a knowing pity. He hated the forced smiles and the averted gazes.

He sat at his desk, the silence amplifying the thudding of his own heart. He knew he didn't deserve the promotion. He hadn't put in the effort. His mind had gone blank when it came to preparing for it.

He pushed back from his desk, needing to get away. He felt the familiar urge to shut down, to retreat. He knew the feeling.