I was mid-workout, arms shaking, when I remembered the email I’d been waiting for. I’d signed up for a League of Legends play test at Riot LA, $400 on the line, and I’d entered with four different…

I was in the middle of my workout when I remembered the email. I’d signed up for the League of Legends play test at Riot LA, and the $400 payout was too good to pass up. My arms were shaking from arm day, my legs were dead from leg day, and I was about to collapse, but I couldn’t stop thinking about that email. I’d entered with my mom’s email, my dad’s email, and two of my own.

I had to check them all. I was so distracted that I almost forgot to finish my set. I pushed through, grunting as I lifted 75 kilos, which was heavier than me. I failed on the last rep, but I didn’t care.

I just wanted to know if I got picked. My friend Carrot was there, spotting me and laughing at my obsession. “Can you get me tickets to the equestrian events? ” she asked.

I told her I’d try, but I was too focused on my own chances. I’d been a whale in League, getting gifted tons of skins, so I figured they might pick me for the play test. I was hoping my spending habits would pay off. After the workout, I couldn’t even get up.

My arms hurt, my legs hurt, and I was exhausted. But I still checked my phone. Nothing. I checked my mom’s email on the main phone.

Nothing. I checked my dad’s email. Nothing. I was registered, but I hadn’t been selected for the first round.

I felt a pang of disappointment. “Maybe I didn’t get in,” I muttered, trying to hide my frustration. I’d been so sure I’d get picked. I’d even planned to go to the Mario Galaxy premiere if I had the money.

But now it looked like I’d be stuck at home. I tried to shake it off and focus on my training. I was working on my grip strength for horse riding, but I had to be careful not to overdo it. Muscular imbalance could cause injury, and I couldn’t afford that.

I did a few more sets, but my heart wasn’t in it. I kept thinking about that email. As I was leaving the gym, I checked my phone one more time. Still nothing.

I sighed and headed home, wondering if I’d ever get that chance. I’d been so close, and now it felt like it was slipping away. I just hoped something would come through.