Gemotions

Coach Johnson leaned against the wall outside the batting cage, the rhythmic thud of the baseballs against the net a dull background to his thoughts. The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the field, making the familiar scene seem strange and different. The silence between the thuds was deafening.

He remembered when he first saw Emily’s talent. Her determination was something special, and she had always given it her all, but she just wasn't fast enough. The physical limitations were something he could not change.

He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture he did unconsciously when he was stressed. He knew he was the bearer of bad news. He called her over, gesturing toward the bench. The afternoon sun felt unusually hot against his face.