Gemotions

“This can’t be happening,” Mark muttered, pacing his small apartment. He rubbed his temples, trying to ward off the throbbing headache that had started the moment he read the email. He had poured his heart and soul into his research, and into his relationship with Dr. Lee.

He had even imagined them, years from now, sharing a celebratory drink after his graduation. Now that image felt fragile, like a dream that was about to shatter. He looked around his room, the walls seeming to close in on him.

He picked up his phone, then quickly put it down. Calling his parents was out of the question; he couldn’t face their questions. He slumped onto the sofa, the silence amplifying the turmoil inside.