Gemotions

Chef Anya crumpled the review, her hands shaking slightly. The critic's words, so carefully crafted, felt like a personal attack. She closed her eyes, trying to regulate her ragged breaths. She felt a profound ache for the dream she had poured her heart into.

She noticed one of the busboys, a young man named Leo, looking especially despondent. She knew he was a college student working to support his family. She went over to him and asked if he needed a break.

She took him into the prep room, where the air was cooler and quieter. She made him a cup of tea. She listened to him talk about his worries, his struggles. She quietly affirmed him. When he was done, she told him to go back out there. She felt like it was her job.