Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. A gust of wind had knocked the breath from her lungs. Chloe had just finished presenting her preliminary findings; she'd poured herself into the project, fueled by her advisor’s unwavering support. He was leaving. It didn't make sense.

She forced a smile as the other students congratulated her on her presentation, but her insides were churning. The words seemed to stick in her throat. She excused herself and fled to the nearest restroom. She stared into the mirror, her face flushed, her eyes blazing.

"Of all the…,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. Her hands trembled as she gripped the cold porcelain of the sink. She felt a surge of energy she didn't know how to channel.