Gemotions

The phone rang. It was Chloe, my best friend. She’d gotten the job. The one we both wanted: Head chef at “Gastronomy Galore.” I braced myself.

I forced a smile, congratulated her, but all I could do was worry. The restaurant’s flashy website, the owner’s glowing testimonials – it all seemed a bit much, a bit staged. I had prepared my portfolio to present. I still, however, had the feeling that the stars were not aligned.

"I can't believe it!" Chloe squealed. "Are you happy for me?"

"Of course," I lied, the words catching in my throat.