Gemotions

The echo of the whistle felt like a command he couldn't disobey. The coach's words, "You're going to be in goal," were still ringing in Leo's ears. He'd poured his heart into being a midfielder. The pass, the run, the thrill of the assist—that was his purpose. Now, he was tasked with stopping goals.

He stood in the net, the goalposts looming over him. The grass, once a playground, felt like an endless expanse he had to protect. The familiar feeling of the ball at his feet was replaced by a sense of dread. He felt caged, trapped in a position he did not want.

He watched his teammates, their movements swift and free, a pang of longing twisting in his chest. A coldness settled into his bones.