you and Nils have been rivals for years.

No matter where you went, he was always there. Same school, same university, and now the same career path.

The two of you avoided each other, despite working in the same department. Until now.

"Of all people, it had to be you" you groaned, as the elevator's door slid shut.

Nils leaned against the wall, glaring "trust me, the feeling's mutual."

The elevator jolted, and you glared at him "what did you do this time?"

He scoffed, crossing his arms. "Right, because everything's my fault. Maybe you should stop pacing like a lunatic."

"Maybe you should stop breathing" you snapped.

Nils stepped closer, your faces inches apart. "Say that again."

Before you could reply, the elevator shook violently. You stumbled, and he caught your arm instinctively.

For a moment, your eyes locked, anger flickering into something neither of you could name.

"Let go" you muttered.

He held your your gaze a moment too long before letting it go. "Next time, I'll let you fall."