Gemotions

The clipboard shook in Maya’s hand as she read the list for the fifth time. Her name wasn't there. A cold knot twisted in her stomach, making her want to double over. She took a shallow breath, trying to steady herself as teammates began to cheer and congratulate each other. She kept her eyes glued to the paper, the letters blurring slightly. Her coach, a stocky man with a perpetual frown, clapped her on the shoulder. “Tough luck, kiddo. Better luck next year.” He didn’t meet her gaze as he moved on to the next player.

The walk to the locker room felt like miles. Every step was heavy, each footfall echoing in the empty hallway. She reached for the familiar metal handle of her locker, but her hand fumbled, and the door rattled slightly before she opened it. The team shirt she had been so excited to wear sat folded on the shelf, taunting her.

Tears pricked her eyes as she sank onto the bench, staring at the concrete floor. She felt a profound sense of isolation, like she was the only one in a universe of celebration and camaraderie.