Gemotions

“Another successful day!” Clara practically sang under her breath as she approached the coding lab. Her project was going so well, and she couldn't wait to share her progress with Dr. Ito, her mentor and biggest supporter. She was practically vibrating with enthusiasm.

As she got closer, she realized something was amiss. Dr. Ito’s usual workstation was empty. A quick search of the lab confirmed her growing unease: everything was gone, the equipment, the posters, the personal items that made the space familiar.

A simple email awaited her on her work computer. "Retired. Congratulations, Clara." Her breath caught in her throat. The joy that had been filling her just moments before evaporated, leaving a strange ache in its place.