Gemotions

The air crackled with anticipation in the stadium's tunnel. Anya bounced on the balls of her feet, a nervous energy propelling her. This year, everything felt right. She’d overcome her injury and worked tirelessly, and she could see how much better she'd become.

The coach, a stoic figure, cleared his throat, and Anya held her breath, watching him walk toward the announcement board. She’d been waiting for this moment for years.

Her heart leaped into her throat as she saw the list. Her name was not there. A wave of ice, of complete numbness, washed over her. She blinked, once, twice, and read the board again. Nothing. She felt suddenly very small, deflated, like a punctured balloon.