Gemotions

From his vantage point, Leo could see the victory celebrations erupt. He sat on the bench, pulling at the frayed edges of his shorts. He hadn't made the cut for the varsity team. The coach had spoken, offering encouraging words, but they echoed hollowly in his ears.

He watched the players slap each other on the back, the camaraderie thick in the air. He felt a sharp pang, a hollowness in his chest. A sudden dryness in his mouth. He wiped his sweaty palms on his thighs. Each cheer seemed to amplify his sense of exclusion.

He pretended to tie his shoelaces, the task taking longer than necessary. He tried to focus on the intricate pattern of the laces, anything to avoid the gazes of the triumphant team.