"Are we stuck?"

"Sure looks like it. I thought they fixed this thing." Derek grabbed the emergency phone and jiggled the receiver. "What’s wrong with this phone? The darn thing won’t work."

Lori took several deep breaths, thankful that her boss directed his attention to the elevator panel and not to her. Maybe the car would move before he noticed her reaction. If he did notice, he’d probably attribute her behavior to claustrophobia. Her reaction didn’t come just from being closed up in a small space, although heaven knew that was scary enough. No, her reaction came being closed up in a small space with Derek Anderson. She managed to focus on her job and hide her attraction to him in the office. However, she didn’t know if she could maintain her professional attitude stuck in an elevator alone with the only man who inspired her passion.

After jiggling the switch hook on the phone several times, Derek slammed down the receiver and pushed door of the phone cabinet shut. "Lori, do something. We’ve got to get out of here."

She looked at the ceiling and struggled for calm. What did he expect her to do — perform a miracle?

"Mr. Anderson, we’re probably the last people in the building. It’s after eight." They had worked late — again.

He looked surprised when he checked his watch to confirm the time. "There’s bound to be a security guard or the cleaning crew around."