Gemotions

Eliza gripped her racquet tighter, the wood slick with sweat. Coach Davies had just informed her of the change. "We think you'd be a great doubles partner, Eliza." The words seemed to echo in the cavernous indoor court. She had always played singles. Her game was about precision, strategy, and individual dominance. Doubles? That meant teamwork, communication, and… sharing the glory. Or, more likely, sharing the blame.

Eliza simply nodded, her gaze fixed on the court's pristine green surface. The idea of relying on another player sparked an unfamiliar prickle of irritation. She wasn't used to anyone else's shortcomings. The unspoken question hung in the air: *Why?* Her heart hammered a frantic rhythm against her ribs.

The first practice session felt like organized chaos. Her partner, a more aggressive player, rushed the net while Eliza hung back, hesitant to leave her established comfort zone. After a botched volley that cost them the point, Eliza's lips tightened. She felt a flush of heat rise to her cheeks. She found her gaze drifting towards the empty singles court next door.