I walk into the elevator. I’m on the sixth floor and in a rush to get home and clear my head. I press the “1” button and assault the “Door Close” button with my finger until the metal doors shut with an almost silent sliding sound.

The elevator stops three times to pick up seven different people. I’m growing impatient. As the people pile in, the elevator is getting crowded. I’m squished against the wall. My claustrophobia sets in.

Nervousness.

I drum my fingers against the wall, out of tune with the elevator music. I clench my jaw a little and breathe less evenly.

We’re we stop on the 3 floor. My heart rate quickens.

I watch the second hand on my watch go one quarter of the way around. I impatiently count every second as it goes by.

I’m getting out of here.

The elevator door opens.

I lunge and elbow my way through five and a half people and take the stairs.