Gemotions

The announcement crackled over the intercom, its sound amplified in the empty swimming pool. "And now, we'll see Michael move to the freestyle." A heavy weight seemed to settle on David's shoulders, pressing him down. He loved the butterfly, the grace, the power.

He gripped the edge of the pool, knuckles turning white. He saw Michael, the swimmer who’d always been in freestyle, already in the water, his body sleek and ready. The others were cheering, shouting Michael's name.

A bitter taste coated his mouth. He wanted to dive in, to show them all, but his feet felt rooted to the spot.