Gemotions

He stared at the menu, unable to look away. "Chef Ricardo's Spicy Shrimp Scampi" was a hit at the new Italian place downtown. It was almost exactly the same as his "Uncle Tony's Firecracker Shrimp," a recipe he'd painstakingly developed over years.

He ran a hand through his hair, his fingers tangling. The restaurant was packed. He could hear the laughter and chatter, the clinking of glasses. He felt a throbbing sensation behind his temples, a dull, persistent ache.

He slowly ordered a glass of water, feeling a sudden, overwhelming thirst. He’d never even considered opening a restaurant. Now he regretted it.