Gemotions

The email arrived late at night, a sterile subject line: "Departure Notice." David stared at the screen, his jaw clenched. His mentor, Ms. Chen, had been his rock, his guide through the cutthroat world of corporate finance. He reread the brief message, a cold formality that felt like a slap in the face. A void opened up inside him, an aching emptiness where her unwavering support had resided.

He slammed his laptop shut, the metallic clang echoing in his sterile apartment. He paced the small living room, his hands stuffed deep into his pockets. He felt a burning sensation behind his eyes, a prickling heat that threatened to spill over. He had so many questions, so much left unsaid. His stomach began to churn, and he fought back the urge to throw something.

He didn't sleep at all.