Gemotions

The locker room felt like a tomb. Each announcement of the chosen players felt like a needle prick. I knew I hadn't made the cut. I saw the elation on the faces of the others, and a strange calm settled over me. As I began to gather my things, I saw Liam, a teammate who'd faced setbacks all year, frozen in place. He looked so crestfallen. My heart clenched. I walked over and clapped him on the shoulder, offering a small smile. “Tough break, huh? But we've got more games to play." He stared at me with wide eyes, as if expecting to be blamed for his failure. Instead, I said, "You’re a great player, Liam, don't forget that."