Gemotions

Eliza strode into the research lab, her boots echoing on the polished floor. Excitement buzzed in her chest. Today, she was finally going to present her findings to Dr. Ramirez, the woman who had guided her through countless sleepless nights. She had a breakthrough. She *knew* it. She was bursting to share it.

The office was bare. The desk, usually piled high with papers, was spotless. The usually meticulously organized shelves were empty. A single, framed photo remained, a faded picture of Dr. Ramirez, smiling. Eliza felt a chill crawl up her spine. A hastily scrawled note lay on the desk. *Eliza, the work continues. Onward.* That was it. No explanation, no opportunity to say thank you. She ignored the prickling behind her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she picked up her notes and turned to the lab. She’d refine her research. She would make her mentor proud.