Gemotions

He slumped onto the park bench, the setting sun painting long shadows across the empty playground. His shoulders ached, the weight of the world, or at least his current project, pressing down on him. Liam hadn't slept properly in days, fueled by stale coffee and sheer willpower. He expected a congratulatory message from his mentor, Mr. Henderson, for the proposal he submitted. Instead, a terse email from the department head informed him of Mr. Henderson's retirement. No acknowledgment, no guidance, nothing. A lead weight settled in his stomach, as if all his efforts were for naught.