Gemotions

The setting sun cast long shadows across the empty track. Coach Thompson stood, hands shoved deep in his pockets, watching Maria jog. He knew she'd be heartbroken. She deserved to be on the team. She'd worked hard, and he had seen how much she had improved in the last few months.

He had promised her, during the pre-season tryouts, that he would do everything he could to help her grow. And now, he had to tell her she was not good enough.

He saw her approaching, a small smile playing on her lips. She looked so hopeful. He took a deep breath, the air cold against his lungs. He walked toward her, the sound of his footsteps a heavy rhythm in the silent evening.