Gemotions

A cold dread spread through Eleanor. Professor Davies, the man who held the keys to her aspirations, was decamping for a higher salary, a better lab, a more prestigious institution. The news was a physical blow, leaving her breathless in the university cafeteria. She’d spent countless hours in his lab, sacrificing her evenings and weekends for this. She had envisioned the publication, the accolades, the upward trajectory.

Her palms began to sweat as she watched a younger, more eager student approach Davies with a smile. The audacity! She felt a surge of resentment. She imagined her project, her research, being handed over to someone else. It simply couldn’t happen.

Eleanor rose, her legs shaky. She had to talk to him, to find some way to ensure she wasn't left behind. Maybe, just maybe, she could convince him to take her with him. Anywhere.