Gemotions

“No way,” Ben muttered, his voice barely audible. He’d just finished a grueling practice session with the university basketball team. The news, delivered to them in the locker room, had cast a pall over the celebratory mood. He felt like someone had just ripped away his future.

He sat on the bench, his shoulders slumped. The scent of sweat and liniment, usually comforting, now seemed to intensify his unease. He ran a hand through his hair, the familiar gesture failing to provide any solace.

His dream of playing in the professional league was now threatened. He knew he'd have to transfer, but where? How? A sense of profound disappointment settled over him. His teammates tried to console him, but he couldn't speak, overwhelmed by a sense of loss.