Gemotions

The fluorescent lights in the elevator hummed, a sound that usually faded into the background. Now, with the car motionless between floors, it grated on Arthur’s nerves. He leaned heavily against the mirrored wall, his eyes drooping.

He rubbed at the back of his neck, a persistent ache radiating down his spine. The air felt thick, making each breath feel like an effort. "Well, this is just great," he mumbled, his voice flat and devoid of energy.

Across from him, Sarah, ever the optimist, was already fiddling with her phone, trying to get a signal. He envied her vibrancy, her effortless cheerfulness. He just wanted to close his eyes and... and what? He wasn't even sure. He just felt… weighted.