Gemotions

The flickering fluorescent lights above buzzed, a high-pitched whine that grated on Michael's nerves. He tapped a foot, a rapid staccato against the metal floor. His gaze darted from the emergency phone, to the control panel, to Sarah, his coworker, who looked remarkably calm. He, on the other hand, felt a surge of energy, a need to *do* something.

"You know," he announced, his voice a little too loud in the confined space, "I think I could probably jimmy this door open. I mean, theoretically." He reached out, fingers twitching, towards the gap where the door panels met.

He bounced on the balls of his feet, his jaw tight. The stale air felt thick, making him feel a bit off. He imagined a screwdriver, maybe from the office supply room... how long had they been stuck? Maybe 15 minutes? He checked his watch again, then again.

"Maybe we should wait for help," Sarah said, her voice even. "There's a button for that, right?" Michael sighed, dropping his hands. The waiting… that was the worst part.