Gemotions

Coach Miller adjusted his tie, the silk feeling smooth against his skin. The afternoon sun streamed through the gym windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. He’d dreaded this meeting all week. He picked up the manila envelope, its contents heavy with the weight of disappointment. He was going to cut Emily.

He looked at Emily's file, her bright smile in the team photo. He remembered her boundless enthusiasm at tryouts, the way she'd encouraged the other players. He felt a swell of warmth in his chest. He took a deep breath, and he told himself he could do this.

He saw her approaching, a nervous energy radiating from her. Her hands were clasped in front of her. His heart gave a little lurch. He knew it would be awful for her. "Come in, Emily," he said, forcing a smile that felt a little too tight.