“Enough,” the owner said sharply. His voice echoed across the store. Everyone turned.
The employees stood silent, confusion painted on their faces.
“Years ago,” the owner continued, “when I had nothing — no job, no home, no money — this man gave me food. He didn’t know me. He asked for nothing in return. He helped me when the world had forgotten me.”
A hush fell over the boutique. The same employees who had mocked moments before now lowered their heads in shame.
The father looked bewildered. “I… I didn’t expect you to remember,” he said softly.
The owner smiled faintly. “How could I forget the kindness that changed my life?” He turned to the staff. “This man is worth more than every diamond in this store combined.”
A Birthday Gift
The father swallowed hard. “I didn’t come here to cause trouble,” he said. “I just wanted to find something small for my daughter’s birthday.”
The little girl, clutching her father’s hand, whispered, “Daddy, we don’t need anything. I just want you.”
The owner’s expression softened. He crouched down so he was eye level with her. “Sweetheart,” he said, “your father is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. He once gave hope to a stranger. Today, it’s my turn to give something back.”
Gasps filled the room. The little girl looked up shyly. “Anything?” she asked.
The owner nodded. “Anything.”
She didn’t run to the jewelry cases or the racks of sparkling gowns. Instead, she walked slowly to a small counter and picked up a simple silver locket. Turning it over in her hand, she whispered, “This is enough.”
The owner smiled. “That’s a perfect choice.”
