Gemotions

It was the fifth elevator malfunction this month. For Tom and Melissa, this was almost routine. Tom, usually prone to rapid-fire complaints, found himself strangely unfazed. Melissa, usually a bundle of anxiety, seemed to be handling it with a quiet grace.

They’d shared their lunches and jokes, a camaraderie born of shared adversity. The oppressive darkness, the lack of space, had a strange effect. The usual workplace tensions dissolved.

When the doors finally opened, Tom didn't rush out. He lingered, breathing deeply. He felt… invigorated. He actually looked forward to facing the day. He felt like he could take on any challenge.