Gemotions

The air in the departure lounge was thick with tension, and Ethan felt a growing sense of unease. His flight to Kyoto, where his mentor was retiring, was delayed indefinitely. He had considered his mentor a father figure.

He pictured the retirement ceremony, the tributes, the recognition. His throat tightened, a feeling of unfamiliar constriction building. He had always strived for his mentor's approval.

He watched the other passengers, a strange mixture of envy and frustration swirling within him. He wanted to be the one giving the speech, the one offering praise. He felt a prickling sensation behind his eyes. He crossed his arms, the action a futile attempt to contain the turmoil within.