Gemotions

The setting sun cast long shadows across the empty field, mirroring the lengthening disappointment Coach Reynolds felt. He had to release Ben Carter, and the kid had done everything he could to be annoying. His constant questions, his attempts to ingratiate himself, and most of all, his relentless mediocrity. Reynolds found the boy's optimism grating.

He found Carter practicing his kicks, diligently but badly. Reynolds approached him, the grass crunching under his feet.

“Carter, we need to talk,” he said, his voice flat, devoid of any warmth. He wanted to finish this and leave. He had a million other things to do.

He saw the boy's smile falter, his shoulders slump. "I haven't been performing well enough, have I?" Carter asked. The simple question was irritating. Reynolds nodded curtly.

"You're off the team." He didn’t offer any explanation or encouragement. He turned and walked away.