Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the locker room hummed, a monotonous drone that seemed to mirror the emptiness inside. “Ethan, let’s talk,” Coach Reynolds had said, leading him to the bench. Ethan’s stomach felt like a cold stone. He felt… distant, removed from the laughter and chatter of his teammates, their hurried preparations for the upcoming game. He watched them from the corner of his eye, their easy camaraderie a stark contrast to the hollow ache in his chest. His gear bag sat unopened on the floor, a symbol of a future he wouldn't be part of.