Gemotions

The metallic box felt claustrophobic, the air growing heavy with the scent of stale coffee and fear. I saw the panic in Emily’s eyes, and my own stomach twisted. "Deep breaths," I told her, my voice low and steady. I tried to focus on controlling my own escalating panic, drawing a deep breath and letting it out slowly.

I started listing everything I could see, trying to keep her mind occupied. "The walls are… metallic. There’s a panel with buttons. A display telling us where we are. See? Nothing to be afraid of."

I remembered the bottle of water in my bag and handed it to her. "Here, drink some. It might help." I smiled, hoping it conveyed a sense of ease. I kept an eye on her, waiting for the lift technicians.