Gemotions

The afternoon sun, usually a welcome visitor in Liam's cramped office, felt oppressive today. He found himself staring out the window, avoiding the half-finished dissertation sitting on his desk. The email was a cold blast – Dr. Olsen was leaving, taking her expertise, her guidance, and her reputation. He felt like his foundation had crumbled beneath him.

He hadn't eaten lunch. His appetite was completely gone. His body felt heavy, his joints felt stiff. He felt the urge to give up. The thought of starting over with someone new, of explaining his research all over again, made him want to lie down and sleep for a week.

He slowly closed his eyes. The weight in his chest made it hard to breathe. The world seemed to fade in around him.