Gemotions

He watched the team celebrate from the bleachers, his jaw clenched so tight he thought his teeth might shatter. They were slapping backs, laughing, high-fiving the coach. Every movement grated. Liam’s usual boisterous laugh was stuck in his throat, a painful lump.

The victory, their triumphant announcement that they’d made the regional tournament, felt hollow. He'd poured everything into this season, sacrificing parties and sleep. He’d broken his own personal bests. But now, he was just a spectator.

He stood up abruptly, shoving past the other parents and teammates. He couldn't stand the sound of their happiness, the way they radiated their success. The metallic tang of the bleachers against his fingertips felt cold, almost hostile. He walked away from the stadium, his steps echoing the turmoil inside him.