Gemotions

"Did you see my article? In *Science Today*?" asked Ben, his voice trembling slightly. He had worked on it for months. The answer, from his friend, was a single word, “Yes.”

He’d known the truth, but the confirmation still hit like a physical blow. “By Dr. Eleanor Vance.” The name burned into his memory. He felt the blood drain from his face.

He retreated to his room, closing the door behind him. The air seemed thick, hard to breathe. He looked around at the familiar objects, his own things, and felt nothing. He wanted to scream. He wanted to disappear. He felt the weight of the world settle on him, and he didn't know what to do.