Gemotions

“This is your chance, Anna,” her coach had said, a predatory glint in his eyes. “You’ll be a libero.” Anna stared at the volleyball net, a knot forming in her gut. Setter was her life, her passion, her area of expertise. Now, a defensive role. She felt the blood drain from her face. She hated the vulnerability of being out of position, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs. She was supposed to be the playmaker, the one calling the shots. She watched her teammates practicing, their faces a blur of movement. She felt isolated, adrift, a stranger in her own team.