Gemotions

The locker room air hung thick, smelling of sweat and cheap liniment. Elias pulled his jersey over his head, the fabric snagging on his damp skin. He tugged at it, a sharp, irritated movement. The coach’s words echoed in his ears, a buzzing that wouldn't cease. *We need you at cornerback, Elias.* He knew what it meant. Demotion. He’d poured his life into being a linebacker, the heart of the defense. Now, relegated to coverage. He slammed his locker shut, the metallic clang a punctuation to his frustration.

He saw the faces of his teammates, their expressions a mix of pity and awkwardness. He didn't want their sympathy. He just wanted to be left alone. He walked away from them, his footsteps heavy on the tiled floor.

The walk to his car was a blur. The setting sun cast long shadows, mimicking the darkness that seemed to have settled over him. He started the engine, the rumble a small comfort. He gripped the steering wheel so tight, his knuckles were white.