Gemotions

The world seemed to tilt on its axis. Serena stood frozen, the humid air of the swimming pool pressing down on her. The coach had just announced the Olympic team roster, and her name hadn’t been mentioned. Her carefully constructed facade of composure cracked, revealing the raw disappointment beneath. A flush crept up her neck, and her hands, usually steady and graceful in the water, were now clenched into fists. She felt a tremor run through her body. The chlorine smell, usually invigorating, now turned her stomach. “Unbelievable,” she muttered under her breath, a bitter taste coating her tongue.