He cursed under his breath. Damn! Late, again.

The old woman ahead of him was counting out coins. One-by-one. Very slowly.

He twitched. Almost said something. 

Almost.

Then he saw her hands. Shaking. Wedding ring worn thin. A bruise just under her sleeve.

He exhaled. Softened. 

“I got it,” he said, tapping his card.

She looked up, startled. Then smiled. A real one.

Walking out, the sun hit his face like a blessing.

For the first time all week, the tight knot in his chest loosened.

He didn’t know her name.

But he swore he felt the universe smile back.