Gemotions

The humid air of the gym seemed to vibrate with unspoken tension, but Maya hardly noticed. Her heart was a drum solo against her ribs. She bounced on the balls of her feet, a giddy energy coursing through her. The announcement board, previously a source of anxiety, now shimmered with possibilities. She scanned the names, a smile threatening to split her face. Not the varsity team – her aim had been so high! – but the junior varsity? Yes! Her name was there, nestled amongst the other hopefuls. She let out a whoop of pure delight, startling a few other athletes.

The coach, a woman with a perpetually stern face, actually cracked a small smile at Maya. “Looks like you earned it, Rodriguez,” she said, her voice softer than usual. Maya grinned, unable to restrain herself. She pictured the next season, the practices, the games. This was it. She clapped her hands together, a sudden surge of something wonderful washing over her.