Gemotions

The notice was taped to his mentor’s office door: “Retired. Thank you for the years.” A chill went through Elias. He reached out a hand, tracing the edges of the faded paper, as if the ink could offer some clue, some hidden message. He had expected, hoped even, for a final conversation, a proper send-off. Now, just this. He stepped back, head bowed, and walked toward the small art gallery down the hall. He bought a framed print of a landscape painting, the colors bold and vibrant, mirroring the way his mentor had always encouraged him to approach his work. He would dedicate it to her, a gesture of respect and admiration, placing it prominently in his own office as a constant reminder of the lessons he'd learned.