"Portia, you can do this." I tried to block out the teasing as my back again met the freshly waxed floor. I genuinely wanted to do my best, but the pressure not to overexert myself weighed on me. I knew that once I started sweating, it would turn into a downpour, and it might not let up for a while.
"You need to come up, Portia." Glancing at the clock was impossible from my position, but I silently hoped that we were nearing the end of today's practice. I felt a yearning to sit up straight and finally take a deep, satisfying breath. Time seemed to drag on as I laid there.
After pushing through my final count of ten, the whistle shrieked through the air, its rusty sound echoing as it blew a second time. I hastily stood up, making my way to the edge of the stage where my things were waiting. I reached for my water bottle, and as the cool liquid rushed down my throat, a wave of relief washed over me.
I was grateful that it was still frozen and slowly melting, promising me hydration throughout the day. The whistle sounded one last time, signaling that I could finally leave and head to class after cleaning up.
I made the decision to go to the bathroom in the hallway, knowing that the gym's restrooms would soon be crowded, making the air thick and humid. I could already feel beads of sweat forming, and the large, airy bathroom down the hall would offer some refuge.
The frosted windows allowed a soft, cool breeze into the room, and I found comfort in standing under the vent, letting the cool air envelop me and wash away the heat.
Feeling completely refreshed now, I gently patted a cool towel on my skin, appreciating the soothing sensation, before spritzing a light mist of my favorite scent.
After one last reassuring glance in the all-around mirror, I felt ready to take on my next class.
