Gemotions

The phone call with Professor Harrison’s former student, now a celebrated professor himself, was a nightmare. He congratulated me about Harrison’s move to a leadership role at a prestigious institution. I hung up, and it was the first time that day I felt like screaming.

I went to Harrison’s office, needing to discuss a paper. But when I got there, I was unable to speak. The room felt smaller, the familiar scent of old books and pipe tobacco now offensive.

Harrison was chatting on the phone, a broad smile across his face. He looked happy, unburdened. As he hung up, he looked at me and said, "Ready to get to work?" I just stared back.