Gemotions

The smell of stale sweat and liniment always felt comforting, but today, it was different. David sat on the bench, arms crossed, watching the team drill. A knot formed in his throat as the coach's whistle blew, calling the boys to gather around.

He wanted to be there, to run with them, to feel the camaraderie, but it felt as if a wall was built between him and them. The emptiness in his chest felt like a deep chasm.

His fingers fiddled with the laces of his sneakers. He wished he could disappear, just melt into the concrete. He would give anything to take back the moment.