Gemotions

Jessica chewed the inside of her cheek, a habit she usually managed to keep in check. The close confines of the elevator seemed to amplify every minor discomfort. She had to do something, anything, or she might climb the walls.

She began to organize her purse, moving items from one compartment to another. She straightened the bills in her wallet, then rearranged them by denomination. This felt equally tedious and futile.

She noticed her colleague, Brian, was staring at the floor, his face devoid of expression. She cleared her throat to get his attention, then thought better of it. Instead, she picked at a loose nail, her frustration building.