He went into the back room.
He opened his backpack.
Inside was an envelope.
His savings.
Every dollar represented a late shift, a missed weekend, a skipped movie, and hours spent washing dishes after closing.
He stared at it.
Then he looked through the doorway at Walter.
Jake closed his eyes.
He remembered his father's words.
If you have enough to share, you have enough to help.
He took the envelope.
When he returned, he placed it on the table.
Walter stared at it.
"What is this?"
"Your rent."
Walter pushed it away.
"No."
"Please."
"I said no."
Jake's voice softened.
"I know what it feels like to need someone."
Walter looked at him.
"I can't take your money."
"It's not mine anymore."
Walter's eyes filled with tears.
"You'll regret this."
"Maybe."
"You'll need it."
"I know."
"Then why?"
Jake smiled sadly.
"Because tonight, you're the one who needs it."
Walter couldn't speak.
Finally, he took the envelope.
But before he left, he whispered:
"I won't forget you."
Chapter 4 — The Price of Being Kind
Jake didn't tell his mother.
He couldn't.
The next morning, the electricity company called.
The bill was overdue.
Jake stared at the notice on the kitchen counter.
His mother walked into the room.
"You look worried."
"I'm fine."
She studied him.
"That's my line."
Jake smiled.
"Maybe I learned it from you."
She hugged him.
Jake felt guilty.
For the first time, he wondered whether kindness had been selfish.
Maybe helping Walter had been a mistake.
Maybe he should have protected his own family first.
At school that Monday, Jake looked exhausted.
His best friend, Marcus, noticed.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing."