Gemotions

The world seemed to be closing in around John. The elevator car was a suffocating box, the metal walls pressing in. He kept blinking, trying to clear his vision, but his eyes felt gritty, as if they were filled with sand. He slumped against the railing, his legs aching. "Any luck with the phone, Sarah?" he asked, his voice thick and sluggish.

Sarah shook her head, her face pale in the dim light. John let out a weary groan. He longed to lie down, to close his eyes and just… stop. The thought was intoxicating, and he fought it with a renewed effort, forcing himself to remain upright. He knew he'd have to remain vigilant, even if it was difficult.