Gemotions

She traced the outline of a diagram in her notebook, a slight smile on her lips. The library was her haven, the pages around her containing worlds to explore. She felt a lightness in her chest, a sense of rightness in her work. Her advisor, Dr. Lawson, had been patient and thoughtful, always pushing her to challenge her assumptions. Her future was defined.

A hush fell over the room as a departmental meeting was called. Dr. Lawson’s face was strained, her voice hesitant. Her words, though measured, struck against the comfortable quiet she was used to, and a chill set into the bones.