Gemotions

Maya adjusted her goggles, the scent of chlorine a familiar comfort. She’d shaved off a second on her butterfly time last week, shattering her personal best. Today was the team selection, and she was primed. Her stroke felt effortless, her breathing rhythmic. She wasn’t worried.

As she waited for the coach to post the roster, she tapped her foot impatiently. She had already decided on the color of her new swim cap. It would complement the team colors perfectly. Her mind was already on the upcoming meets, strategizing the best approach for each opponent.

The list went up. She spotted her name, and then scanned the rest, seeing the team she would be a part of. She waited, expecting the other names to round out the selection, adding the players she expected to be there with her. Then she saw the list's end.

A sudden, unexpected hollowness spread through her. Her breath hitched. The goggles felt tight around her face. She reread the list, each name a cruel reminder of her disappointment.