Gemotions

The parking lot lights cast long, distorted shadows as Michael slumped against his car. The crisp autumn air did little to alleviate the internal chill that had settled over him. He pulled the collar of his jacket higher, the fabric offering a meager shield. He heard the muffled cheers from the team’s post-practice celebration inside the gymnasium, a sound that felt more like a taunt.

He’d known he was on the bubble, the statistics weren’t in his favor. But the finality, the abrupt severing of the dream he'd clung to, was a shock. He thought about the hours of practice, the sacrifices, the unwavering belief in his own potential. The metallic taste of disappointment flooded his mouth.