Gemotions

The rhythmic thwack of the tennis balls against the court was a metronome of his growing unease. David was asked to play doubles, something he never wanted to do. His singular focus, his power game, was built for singles. He’d always preferred the isolation, the individual challenge. Teamwork felt foreign, restrictive.

He watched the other players warm up, the fluidity of their movements seeming to mock his own stiffness. He felt clumsy, awkward. He adjusted his grip on the racket, his fingers tightening.

The sun beat down on the court, making his head feel heavy. Each ball that came his way felt like an accusation, a reminder of his new position. The loss of control was the worst part.