The next morning started normally.
Until the elevator stopped.
Emily and Alexander were inside together when suddenly the lights flickered.
Then the elevator jerked to a halt.
Emily grabbed the wall.
"What happened?!"
Alexander pressed the emergency button calmly.
"Mechanical issue."
Emily stared at him.
"That's your reaction?!"
Alexander remained completely relaxed.
"It will restart shortly."
But five minutes passed.
Then ten.
Emily began pacing nervously.
"I don't like small spaces."
Alexander watched her quietly.
"You're claustrophobic?"
Emily nodded.
"A little."
Alexander loosened his tie and spoke gently.
"Breathe slowly."
Emily looked surprised.
"You're being… nice."
Alexander raised an eyebrow.
"Is that unusual?"
Emily laughed nervously.
"For you? Yes."
After a few more minutes the elevator restarted.
The doors opened.
Emily stepped out quickly.
"That was terrifying."
Alexander followed behind her.
Yet strangely…
He didn't seem annoyed.
In fact…
He seemed amused.