Gemotions

The aroma of burnt caramel filled the kitchen, a stark contrast to the perfect dishes Chef Serena had striven for. The review was a cruel joke. "A train wreck" it had called the meal. She felt the tears sting her eyes.

She stood frozen. She thought of the farmers market, the local vendors she worked with, her team. The loss hit her hard.

She watched her sous chef, Liam, skillfully plating a dish. She took a deep breath. She walked over and stared at the plate. "Don't change a thing. Just focus on tomorrow," she said, her voice raw. She turned and walked away.