Gemotions

Coach Bell stared at the mirror, trying to compose himself. He ran a hand through his hair, smoothing down the edges. He hated this part. He had to cut Brian. Brian, the quiet kid with a heart of gold, the one who always gave it his all.

He headed toward the locker room, his steps heavy, each stride a chore. He felt a familiar hollowness in his chest. The smell of sweat and sports equipment filled the air.

He saw Brian sitting on the bench, head bowed. Brian looked up, his face pale. He knew.

Bell felt the words clog in his throat. He felt as though he was being buried alive. He felt an intense desire to flee, to escape.

He found he could barely speak. He stood frozen.

"Brian," he managed to say, his voice barely a whisper.