Gemotions

The racing car purred, a mechanical heartbeat beneath his fingertips. For five years, he had been the top driver on the circuit, the speed, the danger, the pressure, all fueling his focus. He could anticipate the turns, feel the track beneath his wheels. The roar of the engine was his music. But things were changing.

His manager, a man who always seemed to carry good news, called him in to his office. A new sponsorship, a new team, a new role. He was being asked to mentor a younger driver, taking on a less active role on the track. He was to remain on the team but was being asked to move to a less influential role. He was going to be an assistant to the person who was going to take over.

The news felt like a physical blow. The weight of his position was so important to him. His hands fumbled as he grabbed his water bottle. The engine's comforting purr felt distant.