Gemotions

Sunlight streamed into the gym, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. Sarah hummed along to the upbeat pop song blasting from her earbuds, stretching with effortless grace. She felt a lightness, a buoyant feeling coursing through her. The tryouts had been grueling, but she knew she’d given it her all. Success was within reach, she felt certain.

Coach Davis called her over, her smile already in place, ready to beam at the good news.

The coach pointed to the door that led to an empty hallway.

“Sarah, come with me for a second.”

The hallway was dim and stark, the fluorescent lights buzzing overhead. Coach Davis took a deep breath.

"I’m very sorry, Sarah. You just didn’t make the cut." The words felt like a punch to the gut. The song in her ears faded into static. Her limbs suddenly felt heavy, leaden.