Gemotions

The announcement seemed to hum with an insidious energy. Emily felt the blood drain from her face. Dr. Rodriguez, her guiding light, was departing. Her stomach lurched, threatening to spill its contents. She felt a sudden need to be sick.

She grabbed her bag and quickly went to the restroom. The tile floor seemed to spin beneath her feet. She leaned over the sink, staring at her reflection. Her face was pale. She splashed cold water on her face, but it did little to soothe her.

She had to get out of there. The thought of facing the academic world alone, without Dr. Rodriguez's support, filled her with a bone-deep weariness.