Gemotions

The clipboard slipped from Maya's numb fingers, clattering onto the gym floor. The roster. Her name wasn't there. She stared, her vision blurring, at the list of names, each letter a mocking reminder of her failure. The air in the gymnasium, usually vibrant with the scent of sweat and anticipation, suddenly felt heavy, suffocating. She swallowed, trying to dislodge the sudden lump forming in her throat. Her teammates were already celebrating, slapping each other on the back, but Maya felt as though she were encased in a glass bubble, observing the joy from a great distance.