Gemotions

The email sat in Amelia’s inbox, a stark white rectangle against the grey of a Tuesday afternoon. “Subject: Farewell and best wishes.” It was from Professor Harding, her advisor, the woman who had nurtured her academic ambitions for years. Amelia’s breath hitched. She clicked on the message, her fingers trembling slightly. The curt message stated, simply, that Professor Harding had retired, effective immediately. No personal note, no phone call, just a professional goodbye. Amelia slammed her laptop shut, the click echoing in the sudden silence of her apartment. A wave of heat washed over her, making her palms feel slick. She paced the length of her living room, her steps uneven, the familiar furniture suddenly seeming alien and accusing.