Gemotions

It was the quiet that got to him. Usually, the phone was ringing off the hook, the reservations full. Now, silence. The critic's words echoed in his ears. The feeling of being watched was overwhelming.

He poured himself a strong drink, but his hands shook so hard that the amber liquid spilled onto the counter. He took a gulp, hoping to steady his nerves, but the alcohol did nothing to calm the chaos in his chest.

He felt a sudden urge to run, to disappear. He pictured himself far away from the restaurant, from the judgment. But the sense of shame kept him rooted to the spot.