Gemotions

He found himself staring at the ceiling, unable to sleep. The biting words of the review echoed in his mind, each phrase a hammer blow against his confidence. Marcus, a man accustomed to praise, a Michelin star chef, was now a laughingstock.

He threw the covers back and swung his legs over the side of the bed. His chest felt constricted, as if a weight pressed upon him. The early morning light cast long shadows, revealing the dust motes dancing in the air. He felt a profound sense of isolation.

He went down to his restaurant, even though it wasn't time to open. He'd always found solace there, amidst the clatter of pans and the organized chaos. He found the dining room empty, but the kitchen crew were already busy. He watched them for a while, before turning on his heel and leaving.