Gemotions

He stared at the television screen, the news report playing on loop. A landslide. Roads closed. His flight to the remote research station was indefinitely postponed. Dr. Chen felt a sudden, inexplicable hollowness. He had dedicated months to preparing for this trip, the culmination of his life's work.

His hands began to tremble, and he gripped the arms of the worn leather armchair. His eyes darted around the hotel room, as if searching for an escape. He pictured the specimens, the data, all waiting for him. He imagined the other researchers, already at work. He sat up, then he slumped down again, feeling defeated.