As Clara glanced back at Joe, her heart ached with the knowledge that he was in need, but the practicalities of her situation seemed insurmountable. The bus, her groceries, and the pressing demands of her day created a barrier she found difficult to overcome.
She hesitated, torn between the desire to offer assistance and the overwhelming pressure of her own commitments. With a heavy sigh, she reluctantly adjusted her grip on the grocery bags and began to move towards the bus stop, casting one last, regretful glance back at the man on the ground.