Gemotions

The news had spread like wildfire through the department. Professor Albright was leaving, taking a position at a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. Ethan, still at the very beginning of his PhD, felt a knot tighten in his throat. He’d envisioned a long, collaborative relationship, learning from Albright's renowned expertise. Now, he was left feeling adrift.

He watched Albright chatting with colleagues in the hallway, his face alight with excitement. Ethan felt a sudden urge to interrupt, to ask where he would find his own opportunity. He held back, but his fists clenched.

He found himself avoiding Albright in the following days, the sound of his laughter grating on his nerves. He found it difficult to attend his next lecture, the enthusiasm in his voice felt performative. This wasn't the career he had envisioned, he thought, with a sting of bitterness.