Gemotions

John felt a coldness spread through his extremities. The sudden stop of the elevator had startled him, but now the silence was worse. He ran a hand through his hair, leaving it standing on end. "Hello? Is anyone there?" he called out, his voice tight.

He glanced at Maria, his coworker, whose face was pale. He attempted a smile, but it felt wooden and unnatural. The fluorescent lights flickered, casting a dancing shadow, and the air grew thick with a sense of impending doom.

“Everything is going to be alright,” he assured her, though he wasn’t sure he believed it himself. His stomach twisted with a familiar knot. He pulled out his phone, knowing there wouldn't be a signal, but he couldn't stop himself.

He fidgeted, pacing the small space, his gaze bouncing from the control panel to the ceiling, searching for any sign of hope or help. The minutes stretched into an interminable wait, and each ticking moment amplified his unease.