Gemotions

The weight room felt oppressive. The metallic scent of iron and sweat hung heavy in the air, and the rhythmic clanging of the weights during his workout earlier echoed around him. Coach Davies leaned against the wall, watching the setting sun paint the sky in hues of orange and purple. Everything felt static, unchanging.

He had to tell Emily, the team's star swimmer, that she wouldn’t be going to the state championships. Her performance hadn't met expectations. He felt a deep sense of sadness, watching the way she swam. He knew how much she had sacrificed for this.

He had rehearsed the words a dozen times, but none of them seemed right. He felt an emptiness spreading through him, mirroring the vastness of the pool. It was a hollow feeling.