Gemotions

Mark stared at the weightlifting results, the numbers mocking him. He hadn't broken his personal best. He hadn't even come close. All the grueling training, the strict diet, the sacrifices… all for nothing. He felt the familiar constriction in his chest, the feeling of being trapped.

His older brother, his role model, his coach, was the one who encouraged him to take up weightlifting. Mark had always felt it was a way of proving himself, of seeking approval. Now, his brother would see him as weak, as a disappointment.

He spotted his brother across the gym, and a wave of panic washed over him. The thought of the impending conversation filled him with a cold sweat. He felt the urge to hide, to avoid the inevitable judgment.

He was suddenly very aware of the way his hands shook.