Gemotions

From his vantage point, perched on the edge of the diving board, Mark could see the whole pool area. He’d just nailed a perfect gainer, the water rushing up to meet him. He was a natural. Everyone knew it. He waited for his best friend, Ben, to come back and clap him on the back.

Ben had been talking about it all morning. About this new opportunity. Mark had brushed it aside, knowing he'd be around. Ben was always around.

"I got the job," Ben said, when he returned. "They want me in California by next month." The words hung in the air like a poorly executed dive.

Mark felt the blood drain from his face. His arms suddenly felt heavy. He dropped his gaze to the water, no longer seeing his own reflection in the calm surface. The cheering of the crowd seemed to fade. "California," he repeated, his voice barely audible.