Gemotions

"Well, this is just great," uttered Ben, staring at the motionless indicator. He felt a weird, disconnected feeling, as if his body wasn't quite his own. He looked at Maria, and felt a rush of adrenaline. He tried to speak but his mouth seemed dry.

He didn't know Maria well, but they would be connected for the next few hours. He thought of all the things he had to do. Everything was stopped. His whole life suddenly felt as if it were holding its breath, like the elevator.

Ben began pacing back and forth, mumbling under his breath. He pressed the buttons again and again, as if the force of his will could restart the machine. His chest tightened. He sat down, then stood back up. His muscles felt tight. He had to *do* something.