Gemotions

The soft thud of the tennis ball and the crisp air filled the sports court. James had just won the final point. He felt an adrenaline rush, followed by a settling calm. He and his opponent, Mark, were friends and there was a pleasing sense of camaraderie.

Mark walked off the court to his bag, reaching for his phone. He answered it quickly and turned his back to James, his posture stiff, his voice low and almost angry. James, now a bystander, watched with growing confusion. This was not the Mark he knew. The easy camaraderie had evaporated.