Gemotions

The buzzer sounded, ending practice. Sarah approached Coach Thompson, her heart hammering against her ribs. She was the last one he needed to speak with. She already knew. She’d always known.

The coach, his face etched with lines of experience, spoke gently, his words a soft landing of the hard truth. She nodded, understanding and accepting. A small smile played on her lips, a reaction she couldn't explain.

“I appreciate everything,” she managed, her voice barely a whisper. She straightened her shoulders, a sudden energy coursing through her. The weight of expectation, the pressure to perform, was gone. She felt a lightness, like a burden had been lifted. She would have more time for her studies.