Aiden cracked open the cold beer can he'd picked up from the corner store, taking a few long sips as he strolled down the quiet street toward the residential complex. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the pavement.
Just as he rounded the corner, his steps slowed. Ahead, he spotted Sylvia making her way toward the entrance, her arms weighed down with several shopping bags.
Finishing the last of his drink, Aiden tossed the empty can into a nearby bin and picked up his pace. As he reached the building, he noticed her struggling to press the elevator button with her hands full.
Without a word, he stepped in and tapped the button for her.
"Thank you," Sylvia said softly, glancing up at him. A faint blush colored her cheeks, and she quickly looked away.
"Need a hand with those?" Aiden asked, gesturing toward the bags.
"No, it's okay. I've got them," she replied, though the strain in her voice suggested other wise.
