Gemotions

"They're closing down?" Mark snorted, the announcement echoing in the cavernous, almost empty, lecture hall. Professor Davies, usually so affable, looked strained, his face pale. Mark crossed his arms, the action stiff.

“Yes, Mr. Henderson,” Davies replied, his voice flat. “The official announcement just came through this morning.”

Mark let out a noncommittal hum. He looked around. His fellow students, usually chatty, were stunned. He, on the other hand, felt… nothing. A strange detachment. He’d seen this movie before. Every few years, some university or other faced the same fate. He’d believe it when he saw the bulldozers.

He opened his backpack, casually retrieving a well-worn novel. He’d read more important things than this drivel, and now was no different. His gaze drifted back to the professor. Davies was clearly trying to muster a show of strength, of guidance. Mark just raised an eyebrow. The whole thing seemed staged.