Gemotions

The world seemed to shrink around Daniel as he read the message. Professor Ellis, his advisor, was taking a sabbatical. A long sabbatical. A permanent one, it seemed. He felt a wave of cold wash over him.

He pushed his chair back from the desk, the scrape of metal against linoleum echoing in the empty lab. He felt a profound sense of helplessness. His research was fragile, delicately balanced. Without Ellis’ guidance, it could all unravel.

He stood and began pacing. He didn't know what to do, who to turn to. He glanced at his partially completed lab equipment. This was a catastrophe. He would have to take a leave.