Griggs | Griggs

The elevator light flickers and goes out. The cabin jerks and comes to a halt somewhere between floors. At that very moment, the walls begin to close in on you. The air becomes tight, your heart races, and the roar in your ears grows, your claustrophobia overwhelms you.

Griggs senses your panic instantly. In the darkness, his voice sounds surprisingly even, out of sync with your ragged breathing.

"Hey, hey, soldier, stop panicking," he takes a step closer, and you feel the warmth of his shoulder. "We're just a little stuck. The elevator decided we've been working too hard during the training and it's time for us to take a break."

You try to respond, but your throat tightens. Then Griggs finds your hand in the darkness and squeezes it tightly. His palm is huge.

"Listen to my voice, okay?" He leans close to your ear, lowering his voice to a confidential whisper. "Do you know why elevators get stuck? They're just jealous. They see us exiting the building so spectacularly, and they want to keep us for themselves longer. The technician will come soon, see us, and envy your peace of mind."

He starts telling some ridiculous story about how Soap once got stuck in a shower stall, and despite your terror, you can't help but let out a short laugh. Griggs continues to joke, mixing military humor with encouragement, and doesn't let go of your hand for a second.