Gemotions

The weight room was stuffy and smelled of iron and exertion. Coach Bell watched the remaining players lifting weights, the clang of metal filling the air. He was waiting for Chloe.

He knew she had wanted this more than anything. He'd seen her dedication, the hours she'd spent pushing herself. He felt a wave of empathy for her, knowing the disappointment that awaited her.

He called her over. "Chloe, can you come here for a moment?" he asked, attempting a casual tone. His voice felt tight.

He watched her approach, and he saw the flicker of worry in her eyes. "Chloe, this was a really hard decision." He could barely get the words out. He found that he couldn't meet her gaze. He had to be strong. He had to be supportive. He just wished he didn't have to do it.