Gemotions

The announcement echoed in Maya's ears, a betrayal. The team huddled around Coach Miller, anticipating the game plan. "Maya," Miller began, his tone falsely upbeat, "we need you to try center this week."

Her breath hitched. She felt a cold wave wash over her, numbing everything but the searing frustration that quickly took hold. Years of training as a libero, years of diving for impossible saves, years perfecting her court presence… wasted?

She stared at the floor, the polished wood suddenly appearing dull and insignificant. *Center? Are you kidding me?* She squeezed her hands so hard her nails dug into her palms. The noise in the gym felt like a buzzing swarm.

"But…I..." she started, then stopped. What was the point? Her knuckles were white. A burning feeling built in her chest.