Gemotions

The fluorescent lights in the elevator hummed, a monotonous soundtrack to Amelia's mounting unease. Across from her, Mark, the office's golden boy, was all smiles and easy conversation with Sarah, the new intern. Amelia felt a tightening in her chest, a pressure that squeezed the air from her lungs.

He’d been charming her earlier, too, before the power went out. Now, his focus was entirely on Sarah, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he laughed at something the intern had said. Amelia crossed her arms, feigning interest in the elevator control panel.

Three hours. Three long hours of forced proximity, and Mark’s attention remained stubbornly elsewhere. Each of his lighthearted jokes, each shared glance, felt like a tiny pinprick against Amelia's composure. She found herself snapping at him when he tried to include her in the conversation.