The sky grew dark the next afternoon, heavy with rain. Students rushed from school, umbrellas blooming like flowers. Lina held her books close under her jacket, walking quickly toward home.
At the corner, she saw a man standing beside a black car that had stopped. His suit was soaked, his hair dripping. He had no umbrella, yet he didn't look for help. He simply stared at the engine with quiet frustration.
Most people walked past. Lina slowed, her kind heart pulling her closer. She lifted her umbrella and stepped forward.
"Do you need help, sir?" she asked softly.
The man looked up, surprised. His eyes were sharp, serious, but softened as he saw her sincerity. "You'll get wet if you stay here," he said.
"I don't mind," Lina replied. "You shouldn't be in the rain like this."
They stood together under the umbrella until the downpour lightened. The man felt something stir in his chest. He was used to fear, respect, and fake smiles. Rarely kindness.
His name was Ethan — a young CEO. But to Lina, he was just a stranger she wanted to help.
And in that small moment, a new story began.