Gemotions

The critic’s words burned in Chef Renata’s mind. They were like a brand, searing the very essence of her being. She stared at the reflection in the kitchen window, her face pale and drawn. She picked at the food that she had made, only to put it down. Her stomach was in knots. She looked away, not wanting to see anything at all.

Her entire future, her entire identity, had been challenged. She couldn't fail. Not now. She took a deep breath, and began to prep the food for the evening. She would fight, for as long as she could.