Gemotions

The slow descent into panic began subtly for Carol. It started with a twitch in her eye, a tightening in her jaw. The elevator had stopped, of course, but that didn’t usually bother her. It was the waiting that did.

She watched as her colleague, Paul, began to tap his foot, a nervous staccato rhythm against the metal floor. She felt her chest tighten as she observed it. He was usually so calm, so collected. Now, he seemed as agitated as she felt.

"They'll be here soon," he said, his voice a little too high. He swallowed hard, then started to pace. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She felt a mounting sense of dread.