Gemotions

The news had hit Chef Darius like a physical blow. He'd been so sure, so confident. The critic's scathing review of his innovative new dishes – describing them as "bizarre" and "unappetizing" – had completely knocked him off balance. He paced his small apartment, unable to sit still.

He found himself back in the kitchen, staring at the perfectly organized pantry. He ran a hand over a jar of pickled onions, his fingers trembling. He considered the long hours, the sacrifices he'd made. Then, he grabbed a bag of chips. He rarely ate junk food. He devoured the entire bag, the salt and grease doing little to soothe his disquiet.

The phone rang. It was his investor. He hesitated before answering.