Gemotions

The late afternoon sun warmed Maya's face as she jogged, her usual pre-practice routine. A wide, carefree smile stretched across her lips. The coach had called her over after yesterday’s scrimmage, a quiet word and a gesture towards the center line. She hadn't been sure what to expect, but now… now the world seemed made of spun gold.

She hummed a tuneless song, her feet barely skimming the track. The familiar scent of freshly cut grass filled her lungs, a perfect counterpoint to the anticipation bubbling within her. She was going to play the position she always wanted.

Maya skipped onto the field, already envisioning the plays. The possibilities shimmered before her like a mirage on a desert road. Her teammates had noticed the change in her. She was a different person, giddy and light. She felt like she could fly.