Gemotions

The coach's words felt like a gentle breeze, barely ruffling the surface of his certainty. “We need you at shortstop, Leo.” Leo simply nodded, a slow, deliberate movement. His shoulders didn’t tense; they remained loose and ready, his stance already mirroring the quickness required for the infield. The infield dirt, usually something to be ignored, suddenly seemed to glow under the stadium lights, an invitation to a different kind of mastery. He’d dominated third base, yes, but this…this was an opportunity to command a new domain.

His teammates exchanged glances, murmurs of surprise rippling through the dugout. Leo didn’t flinch. He walked to the water cooler, refilled his bottle, took a long swallow, and then, with a grin, he headed towards the infield to familiarize himself with his new territory. His steps were measured, purposeful. The chatter around him seemed muffled, distant. He was already imagining the possibilities, the throws, the plays.