Gemotions

Liam stared out the rain-streaked window, the professor's office a box of stale air and hushed whispers. “They offered him a bigger lab, more funding,” Dr. Chen had explained, her voice soft with what Liam perceived as pity. Liam's jaw clenched. He pushed a pen across the desk, then another, organizing them with unnecessary precision. He would not be deterred. This wasn't some minor inconvenience. It was a challenge. He would get his PhD. He would excel. And he would do it without anyone's permission or benediction.