Gemotions

Chef Antoine stared at the review, the newsprint blurring around the edges. The critic had eviscerated his latest menu, calling the signature dish “an act of culinary violence.” He ran a hand through his thinning hair, the familiar texture a small comfort. He’d poured his heart into that dish, the culmination of months of experimentation.

The clatter from the kitchen, usually a comforting soundtrack to his day, felt like a judgment. He pushed himself away from the table, a sudden hollowness in his stomach, and walked towards the staff, his steps heavy.

"Is everything alright, chef?" Marco, his sous chef, asked, concern etched on his face. Antoine managed a weak nod. “Just a bit tired,” he mumbled, forcing a smile. He knew the pressure would build now and wanted to shield his team from it.