Gemotions

The cafeteria buzzed with lunchtime chatter, a sound that normally would have soothed Liam's appetite. Today, it only grated on his nerves, a cacophony that made his head spin. Coach Olsen's pronouncement replayed in his mind, over and over, each repetition a fresh sting. He didn't even notice the tray he’d grabbed.

He sat at his usual table, but the faces of his friends seemed distant, obscured by a film. He picked at his sandwich, the food unappetizing, his mouth dry. He could feel everyone's eyes on him.

He pushed his plate away, a feeling of unease settling in his gut. He got up to leave, the chair scraping loudly against the floor. He didn't want to talk, to explain, to pretend.