Author: Matteo Alvarez
I had exactly thirteen dollars to my name and a phone that wouldn’t hold a charge. My mom said she’d send money “soon,” which usually meant next week.
So I went to the corner store for instant noodles and a soda. The cashier, Mr. Gupta, always gave me an extra pack of sauce. That day, he didn’t smile; just nodded like he knew something I didn’t.
Outside, an old guy sat on the curb with a cardboard sign: Need a bus ticket. He looked tired, but kind. I don’t know why, but I gave him my soda and half my noodles. He said thanks like I’d just handed him a mansion key.
When I walked home later, I saw something shining near the curb. A crumpled bill. Ten bucks. I laughed out loud. Maybe the universe wasn’t so bad after all.
I still only had thirteen dollars, but it felt different this time.
