Gemotions

The confined space amplified every sound, every movement. The metallic groan of the stalled elevator felt like a direct assault on Maria’s ears. She pressed her back against the wall, trying to create distance between herself and the situation. The world was too close.

“I hate enclosed spaces,” she blurted out, the words escaping before she could stop them. Her breath hitched. Her stomach felt like it was doing somersaults. "I need to get out of here," she thought. The need to escape was overpowering.

She took a series of rapid, shallow breaths, trying to control the sensation that was rising within her. Her fingers tapped restlessly against her side. The fear was a cold, constricting snake.