Gemotions

The decision felt like a brand, searing its mark onto his soul. Mark's vision blurred, the room swimming slightly. He felt a knot tighten in his stomach, a physical manifestation of his disappointment. His hands began to shake uncontrollably. He wanted to shout.

The Coach's explanations sounded hollow, meaningless. He wanted to refute every word, to argue every point. He swallowed hard, forcing the words down. He could taste the bitterness of defeat on his tongue. He had tried so hard.

He gathered his things, his movements jerky and hurried, and left the office, the weight of the dismissal pressing down on him. The air outside felt thin, and his breath came in short, shallow gasps.