Gemotions

"This isn't real." Emily looked at the tennis team roster. Her name was not on the list. A wave of heat washed over her face. She saw Chloe, her fiercest competitor, jumping up and down with excitement. Emily had to walk up to her, feeling her legs grow heavy with each step.

"Congratulations, Chloe," Emily said, forcing a smile. Her voice was steady, despite the turmoil inside. Chloe turned, her smile faltering for a moment, then brightening again. "Thanks, Emily. I know how much this meant to you."

Emily thought about the countless hours spent on the court, the blisters, the aching muscles. "You played well," Emily said. "You were great." She was determined not to let her own disappointment overshadow Chloe’s moment.