Gemotions

Maria sat on the grassy bank, watching the river flow. The water's constant movement was hypnotic, a soothing rhythm that calmed her. The late afternoon sun warmed her skin, and she listened to the chirping of crickets. The world seemed to fade away. She had a cup of tea by her side.

Her coach, a stern figure, approached and sat down beside her, the grass rustling beneath him. He was a man of few words, and his silence was more often than not a precursor to some unwelcome change. "Maria, we need you to try pitching. The team is struggling, and..."

She simply nodded slowly, her gaze still fixed on the river. She felt no particular dread, only a gentle curiosity about the unknown.