Gemotions

The track meet was over, the air thick with the smell of sweat and freshly mown grass. Sarah stared at the posted results, her stomach a fluttering butterfly farm. The cross-country team selections were based on this race. She’d trained tirelessly, pushing her body to its limits.

The list was posted. Her name was missing. A small, tight smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. She took a deep breath, and the sunshine felt warm on her face. Disappointment? Maybe a little. But then, she thought of the new trail she’d discovered last week, perfect for her long runs.

Her eyes sparkled. She trotted over to the coach, extended a hand, and offered her congratulations. She would keep running, that was for sure. The path ahead beckoned, and she began to plan her next training session.