Gemotions

The metal walls of the elevator felt like they were closing in on David. He hadn’t slept well last night; the weight of the upcoming presentation pressed on him. He felt every ache and groan of the box as it shuddered to a stop. He hated confined spaces, and this one, with its flickering lights and stale air, was particularly unpleasant.

His stomach clenched with a familiar anxiety. He pressed the button for the lobby again and again, as if sheer force of will could dislodge the stuck lift. He felt a sudden, sharp pain in his chest, and he took a few deep, ragged breaths.

Across from him, Sarah, his coworker, was already attempting to call someone. He just stared blankly at the floor. He hoped the feeling would pass. He just wanted to be home.