Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the gymnasium hummed, a low, incessant drone that seemed to mirror the thrumming in Coach Miller's chest. He’d rehearsed this conversation a hundred times, but the words still caught in his throat. He watched Sarah, her practiced smile a little too bright, approach. He hadn't slept well the last few nights.

He cleared his throat. "Sarah, can you sit down?" He gestured towards the metal folding chair. He kept his gaze steady. He had to.

She sat, her posture stiff. Her eyes flickered around the empty gym, avoiding his. He could feel sweat prickling his palms. He didn’t want to see the disappointment. He didn’t want to have to speak.

He pulled the roster from his clipboard. Her name, bold and blue. He felt a wave of nausea. He took a deep breath. "Sarah, you're a talented player, a real asset to this team. But… we're going to have to make some cuts."