Gemotions

The weight of the cello felt suddenly oppressive on Elias's shoulders. He’d spent years perfecting his bow stroke, the nuances of vibrato, the delicate balance of sound. Now, the conductor wanted him to play the double bass. A different instrument, a different sound, a different role entirely. His fingers, usually nimble and assured, felt clumsy.

He stood frozen, his face burning, as the other musicians began to tune. Their instruments sang, each a familiar friend. The double bass loomed beside him, a dark, unfamiliar presence. He felt a deep ache within him, a hollowness that echoed the emptiness of the music he was now expected to produce. He wanted to shout, to run, but instead, he picked up the bow.