Gemotions

The coffee cup trembled in Eleanor's hand, the lukewarm liquid sloshing over the rim. She’d been so thrilled to work with Professor Klein, a leading expert in her field. Now, the department head announced, Klein was taking a position at a more prestigious university. A bigger lab, a better salary, more resources – it was the usual story. Eleanor chewed on her lip, a knot forming in her stomach. Klein had promised unwavering support, a successful defense, a clear path forward. Now, a stranger would read her work, another voice critique her ideas. She felt suddenly, and uncomfortably, adrift.