But there was something about this man that tugged at Sarah’s heart. Maybe it was the way his fingers trembled slightly around the glass, or the way he studied the menu, memorizing prices he couldn’t afford.

She glanced towards the kitchen. Harlan was in the back, arguing loudly with the dishwasher over inventory. Luis, the cook, caught her eye and raised an eyebrow. Sarah nodded once.

A few minutes later, she walked over to the corner booth with a plate: a classic cheeseburger, hot fries, and a small side of coleslaw she added on a whim. Simple, but warm and filling.

She placed the plate gently on the table. “It’s on the house,” she whispered. “Eat before it gets cold.”

The man looked up in surprise. His eyes, though weary, were kind. “I… thank you. I really appreciate it.”