Gemotions

The game was almost over. Ben watched from his seat, the score tied with five minutes left. This friendly basketball game, the one he had spent weeks organizing, was on the same day as his brother, Alex’s, huge laser tag adventure.

Every shot felt like a test, every missed opportunity a setback. He could feel the frustration bubbling up inside him, making his skin prickle. He stole glances at his phone, waiting for any sign that the team from Alex’s event would show up.

He closed his eyes for a moment, the tension in his shoulders intense. The whistle blew. He had to win. He had to make this work.