Gemotions

"So, what's new?" The question from her best friend was met with a shrug. Chloe wasn’t in the mood for small talk, or for anything, really. The news had spread like wildfire through the swim club, and she didn't want to talk about it. The coaches had made their picks, and she was left off the roster.

She'd spent countless hours in the pool, the chlorine stinging her eyes, the water a second skin. Now, that same water felt cold and unwelcoming. She'd walked to the park, the vibrant colors of the playground mocking her.

They sat in silence for a long while, watching the children play. Chloe shifted uncomfortably on the bench. The sunlight felt oppressive, and the laughter of others grated on her nerves. She wanted to be somewhere else, anywhere else.