Gemotions

He stared at the illuminated "10" on the panel, frozen. The descent had stopped abruptly. The sudden cessation of movement triggered an avalanche of unwelcome emotions. His throat constricted.

"This is ridiculous," Jennifer said, her voice tinged with irritation.

He, however, didn't share her stoicism. He felt a cold dread creep into his bones. He took a step, then another, his movements jerky. He needed space. He needed air.

He gripped the handrail, his knuckles white. The image of the elevator plummeting, of the metal crushing him, formed with terrifying clarity in his mind. He was going to lose it. He was certain.