Gemotions

The pre-dawn chill of the track felt sharp against his skin. The air tasted of burnt rubber and anticipation. He waited. He watched the coach with a deep scowl.

The other runners, especially David, seemed to glow with anticipation. He had worked as hard as anyone. He thought he should have made it.

He listened to the coach's words. It became clear. He wasn't chosen. He watched David, who had made it, embrace his family and friends.

His jaw clenched. He turned and slowly began walking towards the parking lot. He didn't speak to anyone, just focused on placing one foot in front of the other. His shoulders slumped, the initial sting of the cold air suddenly feeling like a crushing weight.