Gemotions

He stared at the blinking red light above the elevator doors, watching it tick and tock. Each blink seemed to mock his situation. James ran a hand through his already messy hair, a habit he usually saved for stressful presentations. Today felt different.

"So," he began, his voice sounding distant to his own ears. He turned to face Emily, his coworker. He didn't know how to act. Did he attempt to crack a joke? Offer a comforting word?

Emily seemed unfazed, initially. Then, she started pacing within the confined space. Her steps were short, frantic, back and forth, like a caged animal. She checked her watch every few seconds. He noticed her fingers, once poised and elegant, now tapping a nervous rhythm against her wrist. He didn't understand.

The silence grew heavier. He found himself repeating, internally, “How did this happen?” He had so many deadlines. So much to accomplish. Trapped. This couldn't be happening.