Gemotions

"Uninspired?" Chef Maria snorted at the review. The paper crinkled in her clenched fist. But the word, that sharp little word, kept pricking at her. She felt an unusual chill despite the warmth of the kitchen, and crossed her arms.

The staff meeting was scheduled for ten minutes. Maria had always been the one in charge. Now, an unfamiliar jitter raced through her system. She found herself checking her watch every few seconds, the second hand seeming to mock her. The kitchen, once a place of comfort, had become a pressure cooker.