Gemotions

The weight room smelled like iron and disappointment. Ben watched Coach Davis meticulously wipe down the bench press, his face a mask of careful neutrality. The other players were already heading toward the door. Each step away felt like a blade twisting into Ben’s gut. The team was his shield. The team was his only family.

He stood near the weights, unsure how to act or what to say. He looked over to the free weights, almost wanting to lift, almost wanting to prove himself, but knew he’d make a mistake. He felt a hollow ache behind his ribs. It was a familiar feeling.

Coach Davis finally turned, his gaze meeting Ben’s. Ben swallowed hard, wishing he could disappear. He was going to fail, he knew it. He saw the expression. He always saw the expression.