Gemotions

The drive home was a blur. The radio’s cheerful chatter grated on Leo’s nerves. He kept replaying Dr. Peterson’s words in his head, each repetition solidifying the crushing reality: Peterson was taking a sabbatical, and probably would not be back. His thesis progress would be on pause.

He gripped the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles ached. He had invested so much in this research. He had spent his savings. Now, he was left with nothing but a half-finished manuscript and a profound sense of isolation.

He pulled into his driveway, killed the engine, and sat there, the silence inside the car a deafening echo of his despair. He stared at the house, at the empty windows. He felt so alone.