anticipation

• Countdown begins

  This phrase signals the start of a period of time leading up to a significant, often anticipated, event.

• Wait in the wings

  To be ready and prepared to take action or assume a role, often while remaining out of public view.

• The calm before the storm

  A period of unusual quiet or peace that precedes a time of great trouble, activity, or chaos.

• The shoe to drop

  The inevitable, often negative, event that everyone is waiting for to finally occur, marking the end of suspense.

• Something's in the air

  There is a widespread but unexpressed feeling, mood, or sense of an impending event, often one that is exciting or significant.

• On the verge

  To be at the point where something is about to happen or begin.

• On the brink

  At a critical point where something significant, often dangerous or transformative, is about to happen.