Gemotions

The hallway felt miles long. Liam clutched the framed photo he'd received from his mentor, Dr. Evans, on his graduation day. A forced smile stretched across Liam's face. He knew his mentor was leaving. Now he felt as if his foundations had crumbled. His meticulously planned future was dissolving like sugar in water.

He ran a hand through his hair, dislodging several strands. Each footstep resonated like the beat of a drum against his ribs. He felt as if he was being sent out to sea alone. A cold sweat slicked his skin. The photo felt heavy in his hands. He wanted to go back in time, to the moment before this news became real.