Gemotions

The pool felt colder than usual. David watched from the sidelines as the team practiced their drills, the rhythmic splash of the water a mocking soundtrack to his failure. The familiar smell of chlorine, usually a comfort, now felt like a reminder of his lost dream.

He’d spent countless hours in that water, honing his skills, pushing his limits. And for what? He stared at his hands.

He had promised his father he would give it his all. He felt a deep sense of shame. He began walking toward the changing room, head hung.