Gemotions

The emergency lights flickered, casting elongated shadows that danced across Amelia’s meticulously ironed blouse. "Right, so just stay calm," she announced, her voice a touch too loud. She smoothed down her skirt, a habit she'd cultivated over years of excelling at presentations. Three hours. She could handle this. This was nothing compared to the marathon pitch she'd delivered last quarter.

Across from her, Mark fidgeted. Amelia ignored him, pulling out her phone. No signal. Of course. She’d anticipated this. She reached into her bag and retrieved a small, sealed packet. Her emergency protein bar. Just in case. She carefully tore it open.

"I’m sure they’ll get us out of here soon," Mark stammered. Amelia nodded, her gaze fixed on the protein bar. A flicker of satisfaction warmed her chest. She had prepared. Always. And now, she was thriving.