Gemotions

"You're shifting to right wing, Ben," the coach stated bluntly, his voice echoing in the ice rink. Ben's heart sank. He’d been a center his entire hockey career, the player who controlled the play. He had a deep understanding of the game.

He stared at the unfamiliar side of the rink. His legs felt heavy, his skates awkward. He knew the other players were looking at him, some with pity, some with suspicion. He could almost feel their eyes on him.

During practice, he watched the other right wing, a younger, less experienced player, struggling to keep up. He saw the way he was getting pushed around, his face flushed with frustration. That afternoon, as he left the rink, he caught himself wanting to say something to him, but the words caught in his throat.