Emma trudges through the pouring rain, her sweater soaked and her spirit heavy. At twenty-three, life has already tested her beyond measure.

A year earlier, she lost both her parents in a car accident, leaving her to shoulder grief and financial strain alone. Her mother’s comforting words — “Tough times don’t last forever” — echo in her mind as she pushes forward.

As she shops for simple essentials, Emma notices a man in a gray hoodie ahead of her at the checkout, nervously fumbling with coins. His plea is quiet but desperate: he just wants some food. Something in his voice resonates deeply with her.

Without hesitation, Emma offers to pay for his groceries.