Gemotions

The notification appeared on my phone: “Coach wants to meet after practice.” I reread it three times, each reading making the space between my shoulder blades tingle. I dropped my phone, and it clattered against the tile floor.

Every pass I made during practice felt off. My muscles were stiff. I fumbled the ball twice during the drills.

The end of practice finally arrived, and I was the last one in the changing room. The empty space felt oppressive, the silence amplified.

I made my way to the office, my footsteps echoing in the hallway.