Gemotions

The subject line of the email screamed the news: "Important Announcement." Professor Jones, his thesis advisor, was taking a sabbatical. For the whole year. This felt even more painful than if he were leaving permanently. He felt like his anchor had been cut. It was a good thing, he knew that. Still, he felt an unexpected wave of despair.

He pictured the way Professor Jones always listened intently, his head cocked slightly to the side, his eyes filled with genuine interest. He thought about all the conversations they had had, about the research, about life. Now, that felt distant.

He stared out the window, noticing the leaves changing color, the air growing crisp. He had to carry on, but the thought of the year ahead felt daunting.