Gemotions

“You played well, kid,” Coach muttered, clapping him on the back. It didn't feel like a congratulations. Alex was grateful, but he felt like he was drowning in the ocean, no life jacket to keep him afloat.

The stadium, which had once felt like a sanctuary, now seemed to mock him with its bright lights and echoing emptiness. His teammates were celebrating. He was happy for them, of course. He couldn’t force a smile.

He walked alone towards the locker room, each step a further descent into the hollow feeling that had taken root within him. His shadow stretched long and distorted in the fading light.