Gemotions

The critic's words, the attack on Chef Ricardo's cooking, stung, but he felt it pass. He folded the newsprint with measured care. His shoulders didn't slump. The accusations of poor service were a painful wound. He walked into his kitchen, and found his staff looking at him. “Let's keep going,” he said softly.

He reviewed the reservations for the evening. He moved through the dining room, greeting customers with his usual warmth. He stopped at a table and gently asked if they were enjoying their food. He offered a complimentary glass of wine to a couple celebrating an anniversary.

He took each complaint from the staff with a soft nod. He worked with his team to address the issues. He would prove that he could make everything better.