Ethan slumped against the weathered wooden counter of the local grocery store, his uniform crumpled and his face showing signs of fatigue. The constant buzz of scanners and the soft chatter around him created a lively atmosphere, yet his thoughts drifted away from the busy aisles. He bagged a customer’s groceries with a mechanical motion, putting on a practiced smile as the shopper passed him a crumpled five-dollar bill.
Thanks a lot. “Have a good evening,” Ethan said, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion. He hardly found any moments of true happiness in his days anymore.
