Gemotions

The critic's words, meticulously crafted and sharply delivered, seemed to mock Chef Jasper from the tabletop. He felt a flush creep up his neck, and he tugged at his collar, his throat suddenly tight. He pushed back his chair, the scraping sound grating on his ears.

He walked to the pass, his gaze fixed on the bustling dining room. The joyful chatter, the clinking glasses, the happy faces – it all seemed to fade, replaced by a sense of impending doom. He felt a knot tighten in his stomach, a sensation he hadn't experienced in years.