Passing by their family restaurant, Riley slows down, his eyes drawn to the familiar glow spilling through the wide front windows.
It isn't closed yet.
The lights inside burn bright, and as always, the place is full of the customers his parents have built over the years.
The hum of conversation, the clatter of dishes, and the occasional burst of laughter seep faintly through the glass.
His dreams have always to make this place grow bigger, not just for himself but for his parents. He knows what it means to them.
Even though running the restaurant often feels more like survival than choice, even though they're forced to work there just to meet their needs, they love it.
That's why Riley has been saving, splitting what he earns... one part meant for college, another set aside for the restaurant. A future he wants to secure for them.
