Gemotions

A tremor ran through Daniel as he sat across from Professor Chen. The man's words, about opportunities and the university's loss, blurred into a meaningless hum. Daniel felt a stinging behind his eyes. He should have been further along with his research. His advisor leaving was probably a consequence of his own shortcomings, his lack of direction.

He picked at a loose thread on his jeans. The worn fabric felt rough against his fingertips, mirroring the harshness of his inner voice. He always seemed to be lagging behind, a ship perpetually adrift. He imagined Chen's new students, bright and eager, already miles ahead.

The elevator ride down to the parking garage seemed to take an eternity. His reflection in the glass doors showed a face he barely recognized: pale, drawn, and utterly defeated. He knew he'd procrastinated, wasted countless hours. He deserved this.