Gemotions

The elevator doors opened onto the research floor, and Maya immediately saw the crumpled paper taped to Professor Bell's door. Her stomach lurched. “Departing for University X,” it announced. She felt a sudden, intense chill, despite the warm air.

She stopped in front of the door, unable to move. Her thesis was almost finished, but it hinged on Professor Bell’s guidance. She felt her chest tighten. She thought of all the late nights, the detailed critiques, the moments of shared understanding.

She felt a potent urge to turn around and run. But where would she run to? She took a steadying breath, and reached out to knock.