Gemotions

“Another trophy, Dad!” Maya chirped, holding up a gleaming silver cup. Liam managed a weak smile, patting her head. He used to be the star swimmer, state champion, the pool his second home. Now, the chlorine smell made him nauseous. He’d pushed Maya into it, of course, fueled by his own unfulfilled ambitions. He hadn't wanted her to fail the way he had, burning out from the pressure. He remembered the sting of his own father's disappointment. He could see his own reflection in the trophy, distorted and shadowed by Maya's bright smile. That should be his, but it was not.