Gemotions

The bright lights of the hockey arena seemed to glare down on him. The announcement hung in the air: “Not selected.” Mark blinked, the words echoing in his skull, the rest of the world around him seemingly fading.

He slowly began to untie his skates. The familiar metal blade felt strangely cold against his fingers. He moved slowly. Usually, he would be the first one off the ice, eager to celebrate with his teammates. Today, the thought of joining in their jubilation felt overwhelming.

The familiar post-game routines passed him by, a blur of sounds and motions. He sat in the locker room, listening to the chatter and feeling distant from it all. The world outside felt very far away.