Gemotions

Coach Miller watched the player walk into his office, a spring in his step that bordered on indecent. This kid, Ethan, was all smiles and sunshine, practically radiating good vibes. It was a stark contrast to the task at hand. Miller sighed, pushing a manila folder across the desk. It contained the list. The dreaded list. Ethan’s name was on it, the final cut. He felt a deep pang of regret; the kid was a hard worker, always giving it his all.

“Ethan, have a seat,” Miller said, the words heavy in the air. He watched the boy sit down, posture ramrod straight, and still smiling, a fact that made the coach's stomach churn.