Gemotions

The cafeteria buzzed with lunchtime chatter, but Chloe could barely swallow her food. Dr. Garcia was leaving, taking a position with a prestigious research institute. Chloe’s appetite vanished, the uneaten sandwich sitting like a lead weight in her stomach.

She felt a wave of resignation wash over her. She knew this was a good opportunity for Garcia. But how would she finish her project without his guidance? Everything, from the research, to the future, felt suddenly murky.

She pushed her tray away, the clatter of silverware echoing in the crowded room. She wandered outside, the midday sun too bright, the sky too vast. A profound sense of displacement settled over her. She felt like she was standing at the edge of a cliff, the wind whispering something she couldn't quite hear.