"He needs help," Toby said softly. He gave the old driver a warm, reassuring smile. "You'll get home."
The elderly man looked down at the money, his faded blue eyes widening with profound, emotional gratitude.
"Thank you, son..." he rasped.
Croft stepped right between them, glaring down at Toby with venomous disgust.
"You're paying for that fuel out of your wages," Croft snarled.
"I know," Toby replied calmly, holding his ground without an ounce of hesitation.
"And you're fired," Croft spat, pointing an accusing finger toward the highway. "Hand over your apron, clock out, and get the hell off my property."
Chapter III: The Call from Pump Three
Toby nodded respectfully, reaching behind his back to untie his apron strings, completely unashamed of his act of mercy.