Unease

She failed to notice the air conditioning device in the elevator; she only grew colder as she waited, unconsciously curling herself into one corner. Despite her attempts, she was unable to resist the cold.

He sat by her side. His heart was wrenched with pain at the sight of her lethargic palm-sized face, which was burning red due to the fever. Her breathing had turned quick and shallow.

Not wanting to give up, he went to press the alarm bell again. Alas, the battery had truly gone flat, and no sound came forth no matter how many times he pressed it.

He kicked the elevator door in despair and produced a loud slam.

He tried shouting for help.

He knew very well, though, that, with this elevator down in the basement, no one would hear his cry for help unless someone happened to be passing by.

Mindless shouting would be a waste of effort.