Gemotions

The air seemed to thicken the moment the elevator stalled. Paul ran his hands over his face, as if trying to wipe away the scene. Trapped. With Karen. He hadn't expected this. Not today. He hadn't planned for it.

He opened his mouth to say something, but no words came. He looked around the small space, as if searching for an escape. He knew she had a history of fainting. He hoped she wouldn't do so here, in this confined space. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his rising anxiety.

The silence was a palpable presence. He could practically feel the clock ticking. He wondered if this was all a very bad joke. He crossed his arms, an attempt to appear composed.