Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the library seemed to hum with a newfound, hollow resonance. David had just received the email. Professor Chen, his advisor, was moving to a university across the country. He felt his stomach twist.

He reread the message, the words swimming before his eyes. He pictured the countless hours they had spent together, the countless drafts, the triumphs and the setbacks, all under Professor Chen’s watchful gaze.

He went to find him, hoping to talk face-to-face. He found him in the empty lab, staring out the window. "So, this is it, huh?" David asked, his throat tight. Professor Chen nodded, his shoulders slumping. He looked suddenly older, the weight of the decision etched onto his face.