Gemotions

“I don’t want to do this," I thought, the words a silent scream in my mind. The air in the gymnasium felt thick, the silence broken only by the squeak of sneakers on the polished floor. It had to be done, the numbers were unyielding.

I watched as Kevin walked toward me, his face alight with anticipation. He was a good kid, always gave it his all, always kept a positive attitude. I remembered the smile he had when he made the team last year.

My throat constricted, the words caught in a painful knot. I had to let him down. I forced myself to look at him, and I began the process of what would break his heart.