Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the rec center seemed to buzz with a relentless, irritating energy, a stark contrast to the quiet darkness he craved. Liam sat hunched on the bleachers, the worn wood digging into his back. His basketball was clutched tightly in his hands, the leather feeling rough and unfamiliar. He had envisioned himself starting for the varsity team, the roar of the crowd, the final buzzer… now, he was on the B-team.

He hadn't spoken to his friends since the tryouts, avoiding their calls, their smiles, their questions. He stared at the polished court, the scene of so many triumphant victories he imagined for himself. A knot formed in his stomach, a dull ache that resonated with every bounced ball and shouted instruction. He felt a deep sense of separation, like he was looking in on a world that no longer included him.