I stopped by McDonald’s after a long day, hoping to unwind with a quick meal. As I waited for my order, I noticed a woman walk in with a little girl who looked about six or seven. The child had messy braids and worn sneakers, yet her eyes were full of excitement as she stared up at the menu. Their clothes were clean but clearly old.
The mother’s thin coat looked inadequate for the weather, but she still bent down to whisper to her daughter with warmth in her eyes. When they reached the counter, I heard the mother order a simple meal: “Just the cheeseburger and small fries.” The girl tugged her mother’s sleeve. “Mommy, can I get the toy?” she asked softly. Her mother hesitated before answering, “Maybe next time, sweetie. Just food today.”