Gemotions

The parking lot was unusually deserted, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows. Coach Davis stood by his car, his keys clutched so tightly in his hand that his knuckles were white. He spotted Mark jogging towards him, a hopeful grin on his face. He felt his jaw tighten. He kept the keys in place.

He put on a pleasant face. “Mark, good to see you.” His voice sounded strained, even to his own ears. He’d practiced the smile, but it felt brittle.

Mark stopped, a question mark in his eyes. He took a deep breath. “Coach, am I on the team?”

Davis shifted his weight, his gaze darting around the empty lot. He couldn't meet Mark's eyes. He needed more preparation. "Mark, can you give me a minute?" he asked. The words felt hollow.

He saw the look of understanding in Mark’s eyes. He felt a deep sense of dread.