Gemotions

He had seen the review before even stepping foot in the restaurant that morning. Chef Kenji felt a surge of coldness invade his limbs. The critic's words, so carefully chosen to wound, had done their job. He felt a tightness in his chest, making it difficult to breathe.

He smashed a plate against the wall, the ceramic shattering into a hundred pieces. "Uninspired," the review had said. "Lacking in passion." He scoffed, the sound a low growl. The entire staff stood still, their eyes fixed on the display of violence.

He pushed past the startled cooks, marching back to his office, where he slammed the door shut.