Gemotions

The crisp autumn air bit at Coach Thompson’s cheeks as he stood on the sidelines, watching the remaining players leave the field. He stared at his roster, the names blurring slightly in the fading light. He’d spent weeks agonizing over this, agonizing over the impossible choices. He felt a throbbing tension in his temples.

He saw the determined face of Kevin, always ready to go, willing to take on any challenge. Kevin had a fierce loyalty, a genuine love for the game. He felt a pang in his chest. He remembered Kevin’s dad, always in the stands, cheering him on.

He clenched his fists, the knuckles turning white. He thought about Kevin's disappointment, the way his spirit might be broken. It was a heavy burden to bear. He trudged toward the locker room, the crunch of fallen leaves under his feet a harsh soundtrack to his thoughts.