Gemotions

The hockey rink's bright lights seemed to mock Mark. He stood on the bench, the ice below him reflecting the coldness he felt inside. Coach Petrov’s voice, harsh but insistent, echoed in his mind: *"We need you at defense, Mark."* He, the forward, known for scoring goals, now tasked with protecting the net.

He watched the other players skate with effortless grace. His own limbs felt stiff, uncoordinated. He didn't say anything, but his jaw was locked tight. The sound of the skates against the ice grated on his nerves. He tapped his stick against the boards, his rhythm frantic and uneven.