Gemotions

The world outside the elevator seemed to shrink as the doors refused to budge. Sarah, typically a picture of composed efficiency, felt a strange jolt in her gut. She could not process this. She had a meeting. A very important meeting. Now, her meticulously crafted schedule was in shambles.

“Are you… okay?” asked Kevin, her co-worker, his voice hesitant. Sarah’s response was a sharp, “Fine.” It came out clipped. She immediately regretted it. The panic, which she usually kept locked away, threatened to erupt.

She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. The metallic scent of the elevator, usually insignificant, now felt suffocating. She looked around, the cold steel and fluorescent lights transforming into an alien landscape. She crossed her arms, a small attempt at self-control.