Gemotions

He stared at the rejection letter, the crisp paper crinkling in his sweaty palm. No spot on the traveling soccer team. A wave of disappointment washed over him, but that was swiftly followed by a different, more potent feeling. Across the gym, Chloe, the team’s captain, was laughing with her friends. Her ponytail bounced with each movement.

His heart began to race. He crumpled the letter and shoved it into his pocket. He had to talk to her. He had to be near her. He needed to be her best friend.

He saw her pick up her backpack, and suddenly found himself walking in her direction, even though he knew he would be embarrassed. "Hey, Chloe," he started. The words felt foolish as soon as they left his mouth. She smiled, and his insides did a flip.