Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the gym hummed, a monotonous drone that matched the coach’s mood. He stared across the polished hardwood at Maya, who stood ramrod straight, waiting. The girl's posture was almost comical. He knew what she was expecting. He hated having to do this.

He tapped the clipboard with his pen. "Maya, come here." The way she moved, her steps were slow and purposeful.

"Maya, you've been a valuable player. But we need to make some cuts." He forced a smile. It felt like a grimace.

Maya’s jaw tightened. She asked, "I'm not good enough?" It was a statement, not a question.

"You're… adequate." He was almost impressed at her control, at least outwardly. He could see her knuckles were white as she clenched her fists. He found the display… predictable. It was always the same.

He sighed. “That’s all.” She nodded once, a curt jerk of her head, then turned and left. Coach watched her back as she moved toward the exit, the door swinging shut behind her with a definitive thud.