Gemotions

The air in the arena felt thick, heavy with anticipation and now, with shame. He stood among the hopefuls, their faces lit by the spotlight. He knew, before the coach even spoke his name, what was coming. He could feel it in the way his heart hammered against his ribs.

His jaw tightened. He found his gaze fixed on the polished floor, unable to bear the thought of meeting anyone's eyes. The triumphant shouts of the successful candidates seemed to cut through him. He felt exposed, as if everyone could see the devastation etched across his face.

He had to get away. He just had to. He turned and stumbled toward the exit, the roar of the crowd fading behind him.