Gemotions

He stared out the window of the gym, watching the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the field. Coach Williams’ words hung in the air, a finality that settled in his bones. The other players, usually boisterous and friendly, seemed to shrink away from him, their smiles now guarded and cautious.

His hands shook as he unlaced his cleats, the familiar routine now a source of deep sorrow. He felt exposed, stripped bare.

He gathered his things, the silence amplifying the thud of his own heart. The door seemed heavy. The world, previously full of possibilities, now felt gray and empty.