Gemotions

The locker room felt oppressively hot, the air thick with the smell of sweat and disappointment. Maya stared at her reflection, the vibrant team colors she’d envisioned wearing clashing with the plainness of her own face. Her hand, trembling slightly, traced the outline of the "Varsity" sticker she’d peeled off her equipment bag. It was now crumpled in the wastebasket. Why had she thought she was ready? A hollow ache settled in her chest, a constant reminder of the goal she'd fallen short of.

The team’s laughter from the hallway mocked her, each joyous sound a sharp jab. She picked up her bag, the weight of it suddenly unfamiliar and heavy. The familiar routine of practice had become a chore. It was difficult to look at her teammates, who had made the cut, and not feel a wave of nausea.