Gemotions

The review sliced through Chef Sam’s carefully constructed world. He felt a physical shudder. The words were brutal, designed to wound, and they had succeeded. He knew the impact it would have on the staff.

He went to the walk-in refrigerator, seeking the cool air. The silence was deafening. He thought of his sommelier, Elena, who had worked so hard to curate the wine list. Elena was so passionate about her work.

He found her, later, staring out the window, her face pale. He put his hand on her shoulder. “Let’s go for a walk,” he said gently.