Gemotions

The small space felt claustrophobic, the air heavy with tension. John, across from him, was a bundle of nervous energy, his foot tapping incessantly. Adam, though, seemed almost serene. He leaned against the wall, taking slow, deep breaths. He studied the graffiti etched into the metal panels, observing the varying styles and the messages left behind.

He listened to John’s complaints with a quiet nod. He agreed it was a frustrating situation. He didn’t share the emotional state. He took out his phone and started to browse the newsfeed, trying to stay present. He scrolled through images of nature scenes, focusing on the beauty. He was not worried, he realized, just stuck.

He noticed the frantic behavior seemed to be increasing John's anxiety. He offered him a stick of gum and said, "We’ll be out of here soon enough." He focused on a simple thought: The sky would still be there, and the sun would still rise.