Gemotions

The small, metallic box felt like a pressure cooker, trapping not only bodies but also a potent sense of inertia. Robert’s eyes darted from the control panel to the ceiling, then back again. He took deep breaths, trying to control the flutter in his chest.

He started cataloging the elevator's features: the make of the door, the number of buttons, the subtle differences between the elevator buttons. This was a useless exercise, but his mind refused to settle.

He suddenly realized he had to urinate. He desperately tried to will the urge away, knowing there was nothing he could do. He shifted uncomfortably, feeling an irrational surge of panic.