Gemotions

He stared at the critic's words: "an embarrassing exhibition of culinary ineptitude." Chef Daniel wanted to scream, to lash out. The tight, focused smile he usually wore felt frozen on his face. The air in the tiny kitchen felt thick with tension, each inhale an effort. His assistant chef, a young man who looked to him for guidance, kept glancing over at him. Daniel forced a smile, then gestured for them to start preparing for the evening service.

He moved about the kitchen, his usual brisk pace reduced to a slow shuffle. The oven felt hot against his face. The orders seemed more like chains. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest. His ambition had brought him here, to the restaurant that he'd worked so hard to build. He had to show everyone, prove them all wrong.

He felt the eyes of the staff on him. They were relying on him. He had to be strong. He would not fail.