Gemotions

The tiny, cramped apartment felt suffocating. Leo’s "world-renowned chef" friend, Ethan, was happily eating the takeaway he'd ordered. He was oblivious. Leo knew Ethan had just finished a shift at a cheap diner. The elaborate stories about Michelin stars were just a façade.

Leo picked at his own food, a bland, flavorless meal. He felt a bitter taste on his tongue. He had spent his savings on cooking lessons to impress his friend.

He asked, "Ethan, tell me, what inspired the flavor profile of the 'experimental' dish you described at that Paris event?" He watched Ethan's face, waiting for the stumble.