Gemotions

The scientist, Alex, stared at the data charts. Years of research, countless hours in the lab, all culminating in this groundbreaking discovery: a cure for a rare disease. But the email, the stark, clinical email from the journal, was an earthquake beneath his feet. Another team had reached the same conclusions.

He felt his vision narrowing, the edges of the lab blurring. He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. His throat tightened. He had to get out.

He backed away from the desk, knocking over a beaker. It shattered on the floor, the sound a sharp, unwelcome crack in the silence. He didn't even notice the mess. He fled.