Gemotions

The announcement sat heavy on Liam's chest, a rock. He'd been working on his speed, his shots, everything. He thought this year would be different. But the coach's announcement hung in the air: a name, then silence, then another name.

His hands were clenched, knuckles white, as he listened to each name called, each one a nail in his coffin. The coach reached the end of the list.

The players began to shuffle away. Liam saw the way the others clapped Sam on the back. Sam, who'd never practiced as hard, who always seemed to coast by.

Liam felt a heat rise within him. He started walking in the opposite direction, toward the locker room, his steps quick. He didn't want to see Sam's face, didn't want to hear the congratulations. The locker room was dark and cool and private.