Gemotions

The elevator’s motion ceased abruptly, and Maria's stomach lurched. The fluorescent lights overhead buzzed erratically, then flickered out, leaving them in near darkness. She felt a shiver run down her spine. Across from her, Tom seemed to be trying to appear nonchalant, but his eyes betrayed his inner turmoil.

She tugged at the hem of her skirt, a nervous habit she had. She ran a hand over her face, her skin clammy. The silence was deafening, broken only by the sound of her own rapid breathing.

She looked around the tiny space, as if searching for an escape. Each second felt like an eternity. She kept glancing at the control panel, wishing she could press a button to make the elevator move.

She felt a growing pressure in her chest. The small space seemed to shrink with every passing moment.