Gemotions

The weight room smelled of iron and sweat. Coach Anderson leaned against a weight machine, waiting for Jake. He remembered Jake’s quiet determination, his unwavering commitment. A swell of something warm bubbled up. He hated cutting players.

Jake entered, and the coach's breath caught. He wanted to tell Jake he was still a good player. He knew he had to be professional. He explained his decision, his voice strained. He watched Jake’s face fall, and felt a sharp sting of something painful. He thought of all the hard work Jake had done.