Gemotions

The team huddle was breaking, but Coach Sterling remained rooted to the spot, feeling a familiar disgust. He'd have to tell Kevin he was off the team. He was tired of the player's laziness, his constant attempts to cut corners. He felt the familiar surge of irritation at the thought of having to deal with the kid.

He found Kevin lingering near the equipment shed, fiddling with a basketball. Sterling walked towards him, his steps slow and deliberate.

"Kevin, a word." He kept his tone flat, hoping to keep his annoyance from showing. He felt it bubbling under the surface.

He led the boy away from the others, seeking a private space. He wasted no time. He delivered the news, and watched the boy's jaw drop. The shock was a small satisfaction, a vindication of his gut feeling.