Chapter V: The True Owner
Chairman Bennett looked at Croft with crushing, razor-sharp finality.
"You manage an essential service meant to keep travelers safe and moving on the open road," Chairman Bennett spoke, his voice carrying the weight of a judge's gavel. "Yet you treated a struggling elder like trash, and fired the only young man who possessed the decency and courage to show compassion."
Chairman Bennett turned toward the General Counsel.
"Terminate Mr. Croft’s franchise contract immediately. Void his pension, revoke his operational license, and have security remove him from the premises."
Croft collapsed against the fuel pump, sobbing and pleading for his career as security officers took him by the arms, escorting him off the property in total disgrace.
Chairman Bennett then walked over to Toby, who stood holding his apron in stunned silence. The billionaire smiled warmly, placing a firm, paternal hand on the young attendant's shoulder.
"You gave away your only earnings so an old stranger wouldn't be stranded in the dark," Chairman Bennett said with deep emotion. "Starting tomorrow, this entire service hub belongs to you, and your engineering degree is fully funded by the Bennett Foundation."
As the customers and station workers broke into thunderous applause, Chairman Bennett shook Toby's hand with immense pride, proving that true wealth is never measured by what you keep, but by what you are willing to give.