Gemotions

The news had spread like wildfire through the department. He'd announced his leaving during the weekly seminar. A wave of sick dread washed over David. The other students were congratulating him, offering best wishes. David, frozen, could only manage a tight, strained smile.

He couldn't meet anyone's gaze. The congratulations felt like a betrayal. His thesis was on his advisor’s pet topic. He'd poured years of his life into this project. Now he felt as if his foundations were crumbling. He excused himself, muttering something about a headache. In the bathroom, he stared at his reflection, a stranger with bloodshot eyes and a trembling jaw.

He leaned against the cold tile wall, letting the sobs rack his body.