Gemotions

The weight of the rejection pressed down on Ethan like a physical force. The coaches' announcement seemed to go on forever, with each name being called crushing his hopes more and more. His mouth was dry, and the taste of metal lingered on his tongue. He swallowed hard, trying to clear the lump forming in his throat.

He retreated to the bleachers, sitting in the shadows. He didn't want to be seen. He fiddled with the laces of his cleats, a nervous habit. The celebratory yells of his teammates, the shared hugs, amplified the emptiness inside him. His stomach churned.

He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to fight back the tears that threatened to spill over. He could feel the familiar burn behind his eyes. He buried his face in his hands, not wanting to acknowledge the crushing disappointment.