Gemotions

The stadium lights seemed to glare down on her. “We’re moving you to the bench, Chloe,” the coach announced, his voice devoid of emotion. Chloe felt her stomach drop like a stone. After years of being the star striker, hearing those words was like a physical blow.

Her legs felt shaky, as if they might buckle beneath her. She fought back the urge to fidget, to pull at her hair, as she struggled to keep her composure. She watched the other players celebrating, their laughter grating on her ears.

The world seemed to shrink, focusing on the knot in her throat and the prickling sensation behind her eyes. All she could think about were the countless hours she’d poured into the sport, the sacrifices she’d made, and how, in an instant, it had all changed. A bitter taste coated her mouth.