Gemotions

The aroma of liniment, usually a sign of purpose and camaraderie, now permeated the air with a bitter scent. Emily sat alone in the bleachers, the sounds of practice fading into a dull roar. The coach's words still echoed, the words that would change everything. The shock had been instantaneous, a physical blow that had left her struggling for breath.

She looked at her hands. The calluses that she had earned. The hours of training. All for nothing.

Her stomach churned. The world felt tilted, the colors muted. She felt a deep ache, a sense of profound loss. She wanted to scream.

She closed her eyes, trying to block out the sounds, the sights, the pain.