Gemotions

The waiting room seemed to shrink, closing in on Emily as the minutes ticked by. She ran her fingers across the worn fabric of the couch, a nervous habit. She’d been waiting for an update, the most important piece of feedback, the final stage. She was so close to finishing the master’s program.

The door opened, and Professor Carter stepped out, looking grim.

"Emily, can you step in here?"

She followed him, a sense of foreboding settling in her chest.

"I have to tell you," he began, his voice flat, "I will be leaving the university."

Emily felt a coldness creep through her bones.