Gemotions

The coach clapped his hands, signaling the end of the cuts. Maria sat on the bleachers, clutching her water bottle. The gymnasium air buzzed with energy, a mix of elation and disappointment. Her name, she knew, would not be called.

She watched the other girls, studying their movements, their expressions. She saw the relief, the joy, the tears. She thought about her own journey. The countless hours of practice, the sacrifices, the dreams.

She stood slowly, carefully folding her towel. She walked towards the locker room and started to pack her bag. She didn't hurry.

She had a lot more training to do.