Gemotions

The locker room felt colder than usual, a damp, echoing cave. Sarah stared at the floor, the polished wood reflecting a distorted version of her own sullen face. Coach Miller had called her into his office after practice, the same office where he’d praised her hustle and dedication just last week. Now, the words hung heavy in the air: “We’re going in a different direction.” Her stomach clenched. It was as if someone had just punched her, and she found herself struggling to breathe. She hadn't even heard the rest of the sentence.

The others milled around, their chatter a dull roar. A few glanced her way, their expressions a mix of curiosity and awkwardness. Sarah grabbed her bag with a clumsy movement, her fingers fumbling with the zipper. The team’s star player, Jessica, clapped her on the shoulder and mumbled some encouraging words, but they fell flat. Sarah just nodded, unable to meet her gaze.

As she stepped outside, the setting sun cast long, mocking shadows. She wanted to scream, to lash out, but the only thing that came out was a choked sob.