Gemotions

The pool water, usually cool and soothing, felt positively electric. "We're putting you on the freestyle relay," his coach had announced. The simple statement, normally just information, felt like a thunderclap to his spirit.

His muscles felt loose and powerful. He could feel a tingle in his fingertips, a craving for the water, for the competition, for the victory. The chlorine smell, usually a familiar comfort, now smelled like victory itself.

He took a deep breath, filling his lungs with air. His vision sharpened, focusing on the blue line of the pool. He could almost taste the water, feel the rush of the race, hear the cheers of the crowd. He was ready to explode.