Gemotions

Sarah slammed the locker door, the metal echoing loudly in the otherwise quiet room. She’d worked harder than anyone. She’d stayed after practice every single day, perfecting her serves, her spikes. Now, standing here, she felt like all of it had been for nothing.

Her stomach churned, a cold, unfamiliar knot. She pictured the smug look on Jessica’s face, Jessica who'd barely shown up for tryouts, who'd seemed to breeze through with effortless grace. She balled her fists, knuckles white, the sting a small, almost welcome distraction.

“Unbelievable,” she muttered under her breath, a bitter taste rising in her mouth. She didn’t even bother to meet Coach Davies’ eyes as she walked away, the familiar warmth of the gymnasium suddenly a chilling void.