Gemotions

The sun beat down mercilessly on the practice field, the heat radiating off the artificial turf. The air shimmered, distorting the world. Chloe's vision swam. The coach, Ms. Ramirez, a force of nature in her own right, stood before her, her face unreadable. Chloe could taste the grit in her mouth, the dust that clung to her uniform.

She felt a strange disconnect, as if she were a puppet controlled by invisible strings. The shouts of the other players faded into a distant hum. The coach's eyes, usually so sharp and focused, seemed to pierce right through her. Chloe felt a shiver despite the heat.