Gemotions

The air in the common room felt stale, the students’ chatter grating. David leaned against the wall, listening to the gossip. Dr. Klein was leaving. He stared at the floor, the tiles blurring through unshed tears. This felt like a punch in the gut. He'd been looking forward to defending his thesis and starting his career.

He’d confided in Dr. Klein about his doubts and fears. Klein had always had a reassuring word and a steady hand on the rudder. He felt a profound sense of loneliness. He felt like a castaway, adrift in a turbulent sea. He pushed off the wall, and started to walk away.