Gemotions

The aroma of seared scallops still clung to Elara's apron as she read the digital review. Her stomach fluttered, a strange mix of nerves and…something else. Sunlight streamed through the kitchen window, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air, mimicking the excited tremor in her fingertips as she scrolled. It was her first restaurant, her dream, and tonight was the first time a major critic had graced her tables.

Her cheeks were warm, and she took a deep breath. The reviewer had taken issue with the sauce; he had found it overly sweet. Elara’s hand instinctively went to her chin, tracing the line of her jaw, a familiar gesture when considering a challenge. She could fix that, she knew she could.

Her sous chef, Mateo, walked over, a concerned look on his face. “Everything alright, Chef?”

“Just fine,” she said, her voice bright. “Time to order the new ingredients for the revamped sauce. Let’s get to work.” A smile crept across her face.