Gemotions

The silence in the lab was deafening, punctuated only by the hum of the machines and the shallow, ragged breaths of Elena. Dr. Ito's office door was closed, a solid barrier against the world. She chewed on the inside of her cheek, a nervous habit she hadn’t indulged in for years. The news had come this morning. The department was already abuzz.

She’d admired his dedication, his sharp mind. He'd been the cornerstone of her entire academic journey. It felt unfair, like the rug had been pulled out from under her feet. Her hands trembled as she reached for a pipetting bottle, but her aim was off. The liquid splashed over the counter. A single tear escaped, tracing a path down her cheek.