By now, the confrontation had drawn the attention of everyone in the bank. A middle-aged man in an expensive suit stepped out of an office, frowning at the disruption.

“What’s the holdup, Jennifer?” he asked the representative.

Before Jennifer could answer, a voice called from the line: “This guy’s playing hero for some old lady. Some of us have places to be.” Daniel recognized the speaker as the same impatient young man from earlier. Others in line nodded in agreement, checking watches and phones with exaggerated gestures of inconvenience.

“Sir,” the suited man addressed Daniel, “I understand your concern, but we have procedures. Mrs. Carter can make an appointment to discuss this matter.”

Daniel felt his jaw tighten, but kept his voice even. “With respect, sir, this isn’t about procedures. It’s about doing what’s right for someone who’s sacrificed for this country.”

The man in the suit—likely a manager—narrowed his eyes. “Are you suggesting we don’t respect military families? Because I assure you, this bank has many veterans as customers.”