Gemotions

The morning sun streamed through the window, painting the lab in warm hues. Elara hummed a little tune as she gathered her equipment. Today was the day! After weeks of grueling work, she was finally ready to present her findings to Dr. Aris. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she imagined his reaction. He'd be so proud.

Her steps practically danced as she approached his office. The door was slightly ajar. "Dr. Aris?" she called out, her voice bubbling with anticipation. Silence. She pushed the door open further. The room was empty.

A note sat on his desk, meticulously typed. "Gone fishing. Retirement effective immediately. - A. Aris." Elara's smile faltered, replaced by a strange tightness in her chest. The air suddenly felt a little thinner. She reread the note, her fingers tracing the crisp edges of the paper. This wasn't how she pictured it at all.