Page 68 of Hate You Up Close

All I want to do is touch her. Run my hands through her silky hair. Feel her lips against mine. Feel her lips wrapped around my–

Just as my thoughts start spiraling out of control, the elevator screeches loudly before jerking to a halt.

What the hell?

My arms fly out, instinctively latching on the bar behind me as I turn my head to check on Roxanne. She’s also gripping the safety bar, her face pale and drained of color.

I give her a soft, comforting smile before stepping to the front of the elevator.

“This is a first for me,” I exhale, pressing my finger down on the button for the floor we’re headed to. I shut my eyes and hope like hell that the elevator will start moving again.

After attempting to press the button for another minute, I accept that we’re not going anywhere. At least not for right now.

I guess this was bound to happen at some point. I’ve heard of other people getting stuck in the office elevators, but it’s never happened to me. I’ve ridden this thing a thousand times and haven't had any problems. I just wish this would have happened on any other day. A day that I’m not trapped in here with my assistant of all people.

“Looks like we’re gonna be late to the meeting,” I sigh heavily. “You have your phone, right?”

“Y-Yes,” I hear her say faintly.

My back is turned to her as I still mess with the buttons, but I think she sounds nervous.

“Reply to the meeting invite and let them know we’re stuck in the elevator,” I say without looking over my shoulder. “We may have to reschedule. I’m gonna call for help while you do that.”

I press the help button, and a loud ringing flows through the small speakers in the lift.

“Ace Financial Security, how can I help?” a calm voice asks.

“Uh…Hi,” I mutter, surprised that someone answered so fast. I honestly doubted that button would connect me to anyone.

“My name is Elliot Thompson,” I clear my throat. “My assistant and I were headed up to floor fifty when the elevator stopped. I’ve tried punching different buttons, but we’re definitely stuck.”

“Oh no, I’m sorry to hear that,” she says apologetically. “Please don’t press any more buttons. I’m notifying maintenance as we speak, and they will start working on this immediately. We’ll get you out as soon as possible. Just hang tight and call back if you need anything. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”

“Thanks,” I say, shaking my head and trying my best to not be an asshole. I’m rarely ever late, and Inevermiss meetings. This is really putting a damper on my day.

When the line goes silent, I notice that Roxanne hasn't said a word, which isn’t like her at all.

I slowly turn around to find her sitting in the corner of the elevator with her knees pressed up against her chest. Her limbsshake as her arms cradle her trembling body. I have no idea what’s going on, but my heart sinks at the sight of her looking so…terrified. So small.

I’ve never seen her like this. She’s always so unbreakable, her strong shell seeming impossible to crack. But right now, her walls are completely down.

“Are you okay?” I ask carefully, staying across the elevator in case she needs space.

Her emerald eyes meet mine, glossing over with unshed tears. Her bottom lip trembles like she’s trying so hard to be strong.

What the hell is going on with her?

“What’s going on?” I ask softly, taking a few steps towards her.

She purses her lips together and shakes her head like she can’t find the words.

I kneel down slowly, getting on my knees beside her.

“Talk to me, Rox,” I whisper, my eyes flickering between her terrified gaze. “What’s going on?”

She swallows thickly, blinking back tears.

“I…” she pants. “I feel like I can’t breathe.”