Gemotions

"Alright, team, let's hear it!" Coach Miller bellowed, and the players responded with a spirited cheer. Ben stood among them, chest puffed out, shoulders back. His stomach did a little flip; the anticipation was almost unbearable. He had poured his heart and soul into this season, pushing himself harder than ever before. He’d visualized himself in the starting lineup, the roar of the crowd, the sting of the cold air on the football field.

He flexed his hand, and the familiar ache soothed his nerves. He listened as Coach Miller began to announce the team, his voice booming over the field. Each name was a step closer to his moment of validation.

The announcement was complete, and Ben’s name wasn’t called. He blinked, a cold sweat breaking out on his brow. The cheers around him seemed to fade into a dull buzz. His feet felt rooted to the ground, his body heavy and unresponsive. He felt the air go out of him.