Gemotions

The sudden stop jolted David awake, his head snapping up. “What the…” he muttered, his voice raspy with sleep. He glared at the closed doors. Beside him, Brenda, with her constant perfume cloud and bubbly personality, was already chattering about the inconvenience. He didn't want to hear it.

He pushed off the wall, and crossed his arms. The stale air felt thick, suffocating. He resisted the urge to pace. He wanted out. Every trill of Brenda’s laughter grated on his nerves. He found himself cataloging every flaw: the too-bright lipstick, the overly friendly smile, the way she chewed her gum. He just wanted to scream.

“Well, this is just great,” Brenda said, her voice bubbling with false cheer. He didn't respond. He focused on the emergency phone, hammering the button repeatedly. Still nothing.