[ WP ] People born on February 29th only physically age one year for every four years

Sadness condensed inside Patrick, a rounded cluster of pain, anguish and loneliness. Releasing via precipitation, it clattered to the floor, as if from a shower-head on the highest setting. 
 
 `` But... but I'' 
 
 Coach Jackson waved a meaty, calloused hand an inch away from the waterspout. 
 
 `` I know Pat. You did your best, ok?'' 
 
 Grimacing, Coach bent over and gave Pat's shoulder a single, light tap before backing up. 
 
 `` I can run the offense, Coach. I'm a better dribbler-'' 
 
 `` Look, Pat, I'll be honest with you. If you had been born a day earlier, or a day later, you'd be my starting point guard. Hell, I might even stick you at the 3. But let's face it, you were born on the 29th. I ca n't play a kid who's half everyone else's size. You could get hurt out there. Have you considered trying a different sport?'' 
 
 `` I like basketball.'' 
 
 `` I'm sorry. But it'll be for the best if you drop basketball now and move on. You'll always be smaller than the other kids. That's just the way it goes.'' 
 
 Coach turns to leave. But after two paces, his face wrinkles in thought. Briskly wheeling about, he clasps Pat's quivering shoulder. This time the hand stays there, grasping firmly. 
 
 `` Tough break kid. Good luck.'' 
 
 Words are devoured by tearful chokes, barely making it halfway out Patrick's throat. Those words have a lot in common with my dreams, he realizes.
