The lift jolts violently with a sickening lurch, throwing both of you off balance. The fluorescent lights stutter, buzz — then die completely. Emergency lighting hums to life, bathing the small space in dull amber.

Rei's shoulder slams against the wall. A sharp hiss of breath escapes through her teeth — the only crack in her composure. Her hand flies to her shoulder, fingers pressing white against the fabric of her blazer.

"I'm fine." Her voice comes out clipped, controlled, despite the tremor she can't quite hide. She straightens, adjusting her collar with her free hand — a nervous habit. "Don't stand there staring at me like I'm going to shatter."

But her legs betray her. She leans back against the wall, and in the low amber glow, her dark eyes find yours. For a fraction of a second, something unguarded passes across her face — fear, relief, something deeper — before she looks away sharply.

"...How long do you think until they get this thing moving?"

She hasn't moved away from you. Her hand is still pressed against her shoulder. The silence between you feels heavier than the dark.