Gemotions

The weight of the captain's armband suddenly felt too heavy, a physical burden. "You're our libero now," the coach had said. Mia's stomach lurched. The net seemed to loom, a barrier separating her from safety. The familiar thrill of serving, of spiking the ball, dissolved into a terrifying expanse of open space. She found herself clutching her chest, struggling to draw a full breath. She imagined the critical eyes, the crushing pressure of responsibility. She felt a cold sweat break out, plastering her hair to her forehead. She wanted to disappear.