Gemotions

"Unforgivable." The word echoed in Chef Robert’s mind, a hammer blow to his carefully constructed confidence. He stared at the review, feeling a dizzying rush. He felt a sudden, desperate urge to flee, to disappear. He gripped the edge of the counter, knuckles white, his breath coming in shallow gasps. His meticulously organized kitchen, usually a source of calm, suddenly felt like a cage. He pictured the empty tables, the averted glances of his staff, and his shoulders slumped. He needed a cigarette. Now.