Gemotions

The soft rustle of silk against her skin was a comfort to Serena. She was getting ready to greet her guests. The quiet anticipation, the knowledge of the evening ahead, filled her with a sense of… well-being. She adjusted the pearl earrings her grandmother had gifted her, their cool weight a reassurance.

She opened the email. The review was brutal. "Serena's Supper Club" was denounced as "stuffy" and "overpriced." Her presentation was called "garish" and her cooking "amateurish." The critic went on to say they were "unsure how this restaurant remains open."

Serena closed her eyes, feeling the warmth drain from her face. The silk of her dress seemed to cling to her uncomfortably. The weight of the earrings felt suddenly oppressive. She wanted to disappear.