Gemotions

The clipboard felt heavy in Maya’s hands. She stared at the names, re-reading them. Her name wasn't there. Her stomach clenched. She ran her finger down the list, again. The familiar names of her teammates, then a blank space, and then the next name. A wave of heat washed over her face. She closed her eyes, took a shaky breath, then looked again. Nope. Still not there.

She saw Coach Miller approaching, a smile plastered on his face. He clapped her on the shoulder. “Tough luck, Maya. Better luck next year!” His words felt hollow, bouncing around the gym like a dropped ball. She managed a weak smile back, her throat constricted, unable to utter a response.