Gemotions

Maya bounced on the balls of her feet, her gaze glued to the list taped to the gymnasium door. The air thrummed with a nervous energy that was almost contagious. Every fiber of her being felt electric, crackling with anticipation. She’d put in the work. Hours in the pool, pushing her body past its limits. This was her year. She took a deep breath, the scent of chlorine and sweat filling her lungs, and reached for the paper.

The top of the list swam before her eyes. Names blurred. Her name… it wasn't there. A sharp, almost painful jolt of disappointment slammed into her chest. She blinked, rereading the names, willing her eyes to be mistaken. They weren't. Her shoulders slumped slightly. The buoyant feeling that had filled her moments ago now felt leaden.

She slowly turned and walked away.