Gemotions

The flickering fluorescent light above cast a sickly yellow glow on Amelia's face. She watched Daniel, his face tight with a fear she understood; she’d been claustrophobic since childhood.

“Hey,” she said softly, reaching out and gently touching his arm. He flinched, but didn't pull away. “We’ll be alright. Just breathe, okay? Deep breaths.”

Amelia started humming a familiar lullaby, the melody a comfort from her own youth. She caught his eye and gave a small, reassuring smile, trying to radiate calm in the enclosed space. The hum was a nervous habit, something she did when she felt the pressure of others.

The silence was punctuated by the whirring of the stalled elevator. She found herself trying to distract him, asking about his family, his hobbies. She listened intently, nodding and offering an empathetic murmur when he spoke of the stress of his work.