Gemotions

The cold seethed in her chest. Maria paced the cramped space, each step a frustrated thud against the metal floor. This was ridiculous. Absolutely, unequivocally, utterly ridiculous. The weight of the world, or at least the weight of her overdue project, settled heavy on her shoulders.

"Do you *mind*?" she barked at David, who was attempting to use his phone. The device, naturally, had no signal. He jumped, startled. She hadn't meant to be so sharp, but the suffocating confinement was tightening its grip.

He stammered an apology. She ignored him, turning away to stare at the elevator doors, imagining them opening, just for a moment, letting the sweet scent of freedom pour in.