Gemotions

The pool water shimmered, reflecting the harsh glare of the fluorescent lights. Maria listened, her breath held, as the swim coach announced the team. A hollow feeling in her chest—that’s what she thought she’d feel. Instead, a peculiar effervescence bubbled up from within. She felt like she could swim the entire length of the pool without pausing for air. A tingle ran down her spine. The coach finished. Maria felt a smile spread across her face, stretching it further than it usually did. She met the coach’s eye with a firm nod. Then, she walked out into the cool air, a new song playing on loop in her mind.