Gemotions

The locker room, usually a source of camaraderie and laughter, now felt like a prison cell. Jake ran a hand through his already disheveled hair, his fingers tangling in the sweat. He kept replaying the tryouts in his mind, searching for a single mistake, a single misstep that explained his failure. The other players were jubilant, slapping each other on the back, celebrating their victory.

His name wasn’t mentioned on the team sheet. He felt a sudden, sickening drop in his stomach. He forced a smile as the coach walked past, clapping him on the shoulder, but he felt the hot sting of tears welling behind his eyes. “Good luck with your season,” the coach said. Jake managed a weak, “Thanks.” He wanted to disappear. He felt like his heart had been ripped from his chest.