Gemotions

The factory floor was a cacophony of noise, the machines whirring and clanking. Across from Michael, the trainee, stood Susan, her face flushed with concentration as she demonstrated the operation of a heavy machine. Thomas watched, his eyes glued to her. He could almost smell the metal.

She showed how to lock the safety devices. Each demonstration seemed slow. She took her time.

“Okay, you try,” she said, her voice barely audible over the din.

As Michael took over, she stood close, her hip brushed against his. Thomas could feel a tremor run through him. Her hand landed on his, showing him the button. He had never been this close to her.

She smelled of motor oil and something else, something floral. He swallowed hard. The training felt like an eternity.