Gemotions

The review had left a bad taste in her mouth. Chef Mei had been working on a complex dish for months. The critic's assessment, "lacking focus," had been a stinging rebuke. She had to take control.

She walked the length of the dining room. She stared at the empty tables. Then, she walked back into the kitchen. Her expression was a mask of cold determination. She studied the dishes on the menu.

She began to alter them. She would make the necessary changes, even if it meant working through the night. She started with the sauces, tasted them, then adjusted them. The food would be exactly as she envisioned.