Gemotions

The locker room, usually a buzzing hub of energy, felt cavernous and empty to Emily. The team announcement was over, the celebrations winding down. She sat on the bench, picking at the loose threads of her jersey. Her fingers traced the stitching around the team logo, a reminder of what she’d never achieve.

She avoided eye contact, the congratulatory pats on the back a painful reminder of her failure. Her jaw felt tight, her cheeks burning with an unfamiliar heat. She quickly gathered her things, avoiding any interactions. She wanted to be gone.