“I’m short by four,” she whispered. “I can put the diapers back.”
I didn’t think. I just reached into my wallet, pulled out four singles, and slid them into the till. “It’s fine,” I said. “Get home safe.”
She didn’t cry. Just nodded, gathered the bag, and walked out. I watched her tuck the boy into a tired sedan and disappear into the dark. Then the station returned to its hum, and I went back to restocking Marlboros, telling myself it was nothing. Four dollars. A small kindness. No story.Continue reading…
