Gemotions

The weight room felt oppressive, the metallic smell of iron and sweat filling my nostrils. I stood by the door, trying to appear casual, my palms slick with perspiration. I’d overheard the coach talking to the other coaches.

The sounds of clanging weights and grunts of exertion seemed to amplify the silence in my head. I’d pushed myself as hard as I could, but my performance had plateaued.

He finally walked over, a sheet of paper in his hand. He gestured for me to follow him outside. The setting sun painted a grim picture on the parking lot.