Gemotions

Liam stared at the ceiling, the fluorescent lights of his apartment buzzing like angry wasps. He'd been looking forward to his advisor's advice on his first journal submission. A knot tightened in his chest. Dr. Chen leaving? It felt like the ground had shifted beneath his feet. He’d spent countless hours in the professor's office, dissecting his research, receiving unwavering support.

He rolled over, burying his face in his pillow. The suddenness of it all felt like a betrayal. He’d counted on Dr. Chen for his recommendation letters, for help navigating the treacherous waters of academia. Now, everything felt uncertain. Liam felt a pressure building behind his eyes, a tightness he couldn't quite name.