Gemotions

The coach’s voice was gruff, but the worry lines etched around his eyes were impossible to ignore. “We need you to move to defensive end, Jackson.” Jackson, usually a wide receiver, felt a pang in his chest. He glanced at the other players, their faces a mix of apprehension and expectation.

He thought of Ben, the current defensive end. Ben was smaller, quicker, and had always played the position with a fierce, almost desperate energy. Jackson knew Ben struggled with the physicality of the position. He imagined Ben's face when he heard the news; the quiet disappointment, the feeling of being overlooked.

“Alright, Coach,” Jackson finally said, his voice softer than usual. He saw Ben across the field, his head bowed. He walked over to Ben, offering a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "We'll work together, alright? I'll learn everything you know."