Gemotions

"Absolute rubbish," Chef Marco muttered, crumpling the newspaper in his hands. The review, devastatingly blunt, called his signature dish, the “Seared Scallops with Truffle Oil,” "a culinary catastrophe." He threw the paper into the trash, the action more violent than he'd intended.

His usually sharp focus was dulled. He was pacing back and forth in his small apartment, the review’s words echoing in his mind. He ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. He’d spent years perfecting that dish. Years. The thought of how many hours he dedicated to it made his chest tighten.

He grabbed his car keys. He needed to drive. Anywhere, just away from this feeling that clawed at him from the inside.