Brianna’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “Yeah… I’m sorry you had to witness that,” she said, glancing down for a moment. “It’s just been a tough day.” She tried to sound casual, but the weight of her struggles felt painfully exposed.
The man nodded, his gaze understanding. “I get it,” he said quietly. “I’ve been there myself.” Brianna’s tension began to ease as his words sank in. From behind his back, the man pulled out the LEGO set Adrian had wanted so badly and held it out to the boy. “Happy Birthday, buddy!”