Gemotions

The small, cramped space felt even smaller as he listened to the coach's words. He had poured every ounce of himself into practice, sacrificing everything. The other players stood in a circle, their faces expectant.

He saw the coach look at the player that would make the team. He was in the shadows. He saw the player's face. It was not him.

The celebratory cheers began, and he found himself backing away, a sick feeling churning in his stomach. He didn't want to offer a forced smile. He didn't want to pretend to be happy.

He ducked out the side door, into the fading light of the afternoon, the sounds of laughter and congratulations ringing in his ears.