Gemotions

The weight of the review pressed heavily on Chef Leo. “Lacked originality,” the critic had said, and the words, no matter how untrue, left him feeling deflated. The grand plans he had for the day, the new dishes he’d envisioned, were now overshadowed by uncertainty. He stood in the kitchen, watching the other cooks and felt a desire to be of use.

His usual bravado was gone. He did not raise his voice. He offered no suggestions. Instead, he started to bus the tables. He refilled water glasses. He made himself small. It felt safe.