Gemotions

The news hit Maya like a physical blow. Professor Chen, the woman who had nurtured her, believed in her, was leaving. Maya sank into her chair, the harsh fluorescent lights of the library suddenly unbearable. She remembered the late-night talks, the gentle critiques, the way Professor Chen had always championed her work.

Tears pricked at Maya's eyes, and she quickly blinked them away. She knew Professor Chen would hate that. She took a deep breath, and straightened her shoulders. She had a sudden, urgent need to see her advisor.

She found her in the lab, meticulously dismantling her equipment. The air was heavy with the scent of chemicals, and a palpable sense of loss. Maya walked over and put her hand over her advisor's hand, halting her movements. Maya helped pack, never complaining about the dust, and making sure to ask about the professor's plans, but never pushing.