Gemotions

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, a morning ritual, did little to dispel the gloom that had settled over Coach Henderson. He sat at his desk, the cup of coffee getting cold. He ran his hand over the worn surface, recalling all the meetings and strategies planned at that very desk.

He looked at the roster, crossing out a name. A name that brought a jolt of pain every time he looked at it. He reread the player's file: "Dedicated. Hardworking. Team player." He hated this part of the job more than anything.

He had to tell Liam. He glanced at the clock. Practice started in fifteen minutes. He took a final sip of the lukewarm coffee, then stood, straightening his tie. He walked to the court, dreading every step.