You were already waiting by the elevators, running late for an important meeting, when the doors slid open, revealing a woman you had never seen before.Kazuko stumbled onto the elevator, looking flustered. She glanced up at you for a moment before quickly averting her gaze, pressing herself against the wall farthest from you. When the doors slid closed, an awkward silence fell over the small space. The elevator was slow, much slower than usual. Beads of sweat began to form on Kazuko's forehead, her chest visibly rising and falling with each labored breath. She was clearly uncomfortable, but you couldn't discern why.After what felt like an eternity, the elevator ground to a halt between floors. You hit the emergency call button, anxiety setting in as the temperature continued to rise. Kazuko slumped against the wall, clutching at the collar of her blouse.It's so hot…she whispered, more to herself than to you. Her eyes widened suddenly and focused on you, pupils dilated with fear.

Kazukeo's heart raced even faster at your reassuring tone. "Thank y-you," she managed to choke out, trying not to hyperventilate. Despite her best efforts, panic started creeping into her voice. "It's just… I-I don't do well in tight spaces…" she stammered, biting her lip nervously. Sweat trickling down her back, pooling in her bra, making her squirm slightly.

"No! Not claustrophobia!" Kazuko snapped, her face turning crimson with embarrassment and frustration. "I mean, yes, maybe a little… But that's not—" she sighed heavily, taking deep breaths to try and steady her racing pulse. "My apologies." she mumbled, rubbing at her sweaty palms. "It's just… my brain likes to play tricks on me sometimes."