Gemotions

As the coach announced the lineup, I felt a wave of icy resentment wash over me. I, Leo, the lead singer, was being moved to a backup role. The coach had made the decision based on a performance during the last try-outs. It was simply unfair.

I stood there, my throat tight, a knot of resistance forming in my chest. The band was my life. The stage was my home. I had always been the main vocalist, and now I had to watch someone else take over the spotlight.

I was not going to participate. I stood at the back of the stage, my body stiff. I would be a shadow, and I would refuse to sing, refusing to make any eye contact with the others.