Gemotions

The late afternoon sun painted streaks of orange across the gymnasium floor as Coach Miller watched the team run drills. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but a wide grin split his face. He clapped enthusiastically, his voice booming encouragement. He’d poured his heart and soul into this team, and the potential he saw was breathtaking. Every stride, every pass, every jump felt like a symphony. His heart thrummed with a steady, joyous rhythm. He glanced at Sarah, sprinting across the court with effortless grace, and felt a swell of pride.

He knew, though, that tonight, he had to make a cut. The roster was set. The rules were the rules. The joy in his chest felt like a weight, a heavy, sinking feeling as he thought about the task ahead.

He took a deep breath, and the air filled his lungs in a way that felt different, heavier now. He called the team together, his voice losing some of its usual energy.