Gemotions

Sarah, the soccer coach, ran a hand over her forehead, wiping away the sweat despite the cool late-afternoon air. The field, usually a vibrant tapestry of green, appeared muted, a faded photograph. She stared at the spot where Emily, a midfielder, had practiced her free kicks. The memory of Emily's first tryout, all shaky nerves and hopeful glances, flickered vividly in her mind. Now, after the cuts, she must speak with her.

Sarah's stomach twisted. She recalled her own coach. A stern man, but fair, and so very patient.

She could almost feel the phantom weight of her old soccer cleats on her feet. Sarah thought of her own dreams, years ago, and of how they were shattered. She paused. She took a breath. She must give Emily a chance to move on and the best start to her future.