Gemotions

"And for the final spot," Coach Riley boomed over the loudspeakers, "we've selected… Jessica Miller." A wave of murmurs rippled through the candidates, but all Chris heard was a ringing in his ears. He swallowed hard, his Adam's apple bobbing. He'd envisioned this moment a thousand times, each time ending with his name being announced. He'd even practiced his victory smile.

He felt his cheeks burn, a stinging sensation spreading across his face. He avoided looking towards his parents, who sat in the stands, probably still beaming with pride, expecting to be congratulated. He imagined the way his teammates would look at him, their pitying glances.

He clenched his jaw, the muscle in his cheek twitching. He wanted to scream. He was too embarrassed to move.