Gemotions

The announcement blared over the departmental speakers during lunch. Sarah clenched her jaw, the sound of Dr. Evans’ voice, usually a source of comfort, now grated on her nerves. He was leaving for a tenured position at a university on the West Coast.

She pushed her untouched salad around her plate. She watched as other students flocked towards Evans, laughing, offering congratulations. Their happiness felt like a personal insult. She had worked harder than any of them, she believed.

When Evans approached, Sarah plastered on a smile, a brittle thing that didn't reach her eyes. “Congratulations, Doctor,” she said, her voice tight. Evans smiled back, offering reassurances about continuing contact. The words felt empty, worthless.