Gemotions

“Next year, maybe.” Those words, the coach’s attempt to be kind, felt like a cruel joke to Sarah. She could feel the color drain from her face as she walked away from the announcement. Her hands trembled.

She ducked into the bathroom, the cool tile offering little comfort. She stared at her reflection. Her eyes looked wide, frantic. She splashed water on her face, but it didn't help. The knot in her stomach tightened with each passing second.

She needed to get away, to disappear. She leaned against the cool wall, trying to control her ragged breathing. The echoing sounds of the victory party outside were unbearable. Her world narrowed.