Jacob hesitated, the thought of indulging in something for himself feeling foreign and almost selfish. But the older woman’s eyes were steady, her tone leaving no room for argument. “Jacob, life’s hard enough without letting yourself have even the smallest joys. Go on.”
Slowly, Jacob nodded. “Thank you,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. He turned and walked back to the counter where the six-pack had been set aside. The weight of guilt he’d carried earlier felt lighter now, replaced by a warmth he hadn’t felt in a long time.