Gemotions

The email arrived mid-afternoon, the subject line a stark declaration: “Departure Announcement.” Maria clicked it open, her stomach immediately knotting. Professor Davies, her advisor, was leaving for a position at a prestigious institution across the country. She reread the message, the words blurring on the screen. A sudden chill swept through the room, even though the sun was streaming through the window. She felt a phantom pressure against her chest, as if someone was sitting on her ribcage. Later that evening, she found herself staring into the refrigerator, unable to decide what to eat, the usual comforting routines suddenly alien.