Gemotions

The aroma of charred wood filled the air, a stark contrast to the once-pristine kitchen. Chef Astrid stared, transfixed, at the blackened remains of her meticulously crafted soufflé. The review – “flavorless," "unambitious," "a culinary train wreck” – had shattered her confidence. She felt the tears well in her eyes.

Her hands trembled as she cleared the debris, the sound of the clattering plates deafening in the silence. The staff were waiting. She'd need to face them.

She took a deep breath. She didn't want to.