He nodded, pretending to inspect a candy bar. “I noticed it’s quite busy. You’re doing a great job keeping up.” His words were sincere, his tone gentle.

Kendra hesitated, her eyes searching his face. “Thank you,” she said, her voice cracking slightly. “I just—I just want to do my job well.”

Daniel felt a pang of empathy. It was clear that Kendra cared deeply about her work, but the environment was wearing her down. He decided it was time to intervene