Gemotions

The review crackled in her hands, a fragile piece of kindling in a raging inferno of self-doubt. Chef Beatrice felt a tremor start in her fingertips, spreading quickly through her limbs. She dropped the paper on the counter, the noise echoing too loudly in the otherwise quiet prep area.

She retreated to the back, to the solitude of her tiny office. She sat down, but couldn't seem to find a comfortable position. Every movement felt stiff and unnatural. The silence pressed down on her, amplifying the thumping in her chest.