Gemotions

The office felt cold, despite the thermostat. He reread the short, typed notice on the door: "Retired. Thank you." He felt a tightening in his stomach. He’d built his career, in large part, on his mentor’s guidance. And now, he was gone.

He sank into his chair, the leather creaking in protest. He had so many questions, so many things left unsaid. He picked up a pen and started doodling meaningless shapes. His head throbbed, a dull pulse that echoed the emptiness inside him.

He was suddenly aware of the echoing emptiness of the office, which now felt more vast, more lonely than ever before. He closed his eyes, remembering the firm hand on his shoulder, the comforting weight of his mentor’s presence. The realization was difficult. He missed him.