Gemotions

Liam stared at the email on his phone, the words swimming before his eyes. “Regret to inform you…” It felt like a punch to the gut. All those hours of practice, the sweat, the sacrifices, and it wasn’t enough. His throat constricted, making it hard to swallow. He was supposed to be the starting pitcher.

He slumped against the kitchen counter, the ceramic cool against his cheek. His mom found him there, her face etched with concern. "What's wrong, sweetie?" Her voice was soft, laced with a tenderness that made his throat tighten further.

“I…I didn’t make the team,” he croaked, the words barely a whisper. He couldn’t look at her, ashamed and defeated. The familiar scent of her lavender soap filled the air, the comfort it usually provided now a sharp reminder of the dream he'd lost.