Gemotions

The overhead lights began to pulse, a strobe-light effect that triggered a cascade of anxiety through Robert. He knew he had to keep it together. He took a deep breath. His body wasn't cooperating.

His colleague, Sarah, was staring at the control panel, her face contorted in a silent scream. He forced a smile, a grimace that felt like it cracked his face. "We'll be out soon," he said, hoping to convince himself.

He felt the prickle of sweat on his forehead. The elevator car felt like it was shrinking, the walls moving in, the ceiling closing in. He felt nauseous. He tried to focus on his breathing, but his lungs felt constricted.

A sob escaped him, followed by another. He covered his face with his hands, the metal of the handrails suddenly seeming to close in.