Gemotions

"Okay, Kai, we’re going to give you a go at the left wing. You’ve got the speed, and we need someone to… you know… be a bit more assertive up there." The coach's words felt like a physical blow. Kai stared at him, his face a perfect mask of neutrality. He hated this.

The familiar camaraderie of the right defense, the intricate dance they had perfected, was threatened. He couldn't shake the feeling of being forced into a new identity. The air felt thick, heavy, suffocating.

He wanted to argue, to refuse, but instead, he nodded, each movement stiff and carefully controlled. His fists clenched and unclenched at his sides.