Gemotions

The announcement had come during a seminar. Alex listened, his hands clammy. Dr. Bell was leaving. He stared at the professor, his mentor, as if trying to memorize every detail of the man's face, knowing these observations would become a precious, fading memory.

He tried to focus on the lecture, but the words swam before his eyes. He found himself fiddling with the cap of his pen, clicking it repeatedly, a nervous habit he hadn't indulged in years.

He knew he should be happy for Dr. Bell. A new opportunity. A chance to advance his career. But all he felt was this deep, gnawing emptiness. It was as if someone had taken something vital from him, leaving behind only a void.