In that moment, Celina felt an overwhelming urge to cry. Small gestures, quiet acts of kindness—everything she had been missing for so long.

“You really are a gift,” she said, steadying the cart so he could place the bags inside.

“And you’re my fresh start too, Celina. This moment belongs to both of us.”

“You have no idea how much that comforts me.”

They paid for their groceries, walked out carrying two insulated bags and three regular ones, and called an Uber to take them back. The sky