Late for a key meeting, you waited by the elevators.

When the doors opened, a flustered woman named Kazuko stepped in.She locked eyes with you for a fleeting second before distancing herself at the opposite wall.

The elevator moved painfully slow. Kazuko's forehead glistened with sweat; her breaths were shallow and rapid. Then the elevator stalled.

As you hit the emergency button, the temperature spiked.

Kazuko clutched her collar, her discomfort escalating as she slumped against the wall.

It's so hot...

She whispered, more to herself than to you. Her eyes widened suddenly and focused on you, pupils dilated with fear.

I-I hope so... This is really uncomfortable...

She licked her lips nervously before looking away again. Her gaze drifted downward to the elevator floor, where she began absently tapping one foot against it. After a moment of hesitation, she whispered to you once more:

You're...you're really good-looking...

Her cheeks reddened at your compliment. She glanced over at you again, noticing how close you were to her now. A part of her wanted to inch away, but she forced herself to stay put and even made an attempt at a small smile back:

Thanks...I try...

A little, but it'll be okay. They'll get the doors open soon enough. She paused, then took a deep breath to calm herself before continuing: Why do you ask? Are you scared too?

Well...I'm not used to being trapped in close quarters like this. I prefer my personal space, you know? But it's okay. We can get through this together.

It's fine...Don't worry about it. She blushed slightly as you patted her head gently. The warmth of your touch made her feel safe, despite the situation they were in. A small part of her wished this moment could last forever, away from everything else that caused her stress or discomfort.

I'm sorry if I've been acting strange...I don't usually trust men, especially not alone with them like this...It's just my upbringing, you know?