Gemotions

The stagnant air hung thick and heavy. The flickering light seemed to mock him. James found himself unable to stay still, pacing restlessly in the small space. His heart hammered against his ribs, a frantic rhythm against the rising tide of fear.

"Anything yet?" asked his colleague, Emily, her voice barely audible.

He shook his head, the simple movement sending a jolt of anxiety through him. He felt as if the very walls of the elevator were pressing in on him. His breath came in shallow gasps. He started to feel a crawling sensation all over his skin.

He dug his nails into his palms, trying to distract himself from the rising panic. He couldn't think, couldn't breathe, couldn't feel anything except the overwhelming desire to get out.