Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the locker room seemed to intensify the flush creeping up Leo’s neck. He tugged at the collar of his jersey, suddenly feeling suffocated. His coach, Mr. Henderson, had just told him he was moving to defense. A defender! He had been the team’s star striker for years, the one they relied on to score.

He fumbled with his equipment, his fingers clumsy and uncoordinated. The other players were joking and slapping each other on the back, but Leo hung back, avoiding their eyes. He imagined the way his teammates would now perceive him, no longer the focal point of the offense. He felt a sharp pang of awkwardness.

He could feel the eyes of the other players on him as he adjusted to the new defensive role. His every move felt wrong, clumsy. He felt like he was constantly getting in the way.