Gemotions

The late afternoon sun warmed Maya’s face as she leaned against the railing, watching the other girls practice their routines. The familiar scent of chlorine and sweat filled the air, a comforting blanket over the anticipation buzzing in her veins. She bounced on the balls of her feet, her hands shoved deep in her pockets. The team had been announced an hour ago, and the initial sting of disappointment had faded, replaced by something… lighter.

"Hey, Maya!" Coach Miller waved her over. "Got a minute?"

Maya sauntered over, a slight grin playing on her lips. "Sure, Coach."

"Look," the coach said, a kindly smile gracing her features. "We were hoping you'd consider being an alternate."

Maya nodded slowly. "I've been thinking about it. Actually, I was just enjoying the view, taking it all in." The team members, running through their final run-throughs, were a blur of coordinated jumps. She already saw herself with some of the junior players, helping them grow.