To Go

The girl adjusted her hat and flashed her braces. “And for you, sir?”

“Happiness,” said the man with hollow circles under his eyes. “A new purpose.”

“One double-cheeseburger and a side of onion rings,” said the girl. “Here you go, sir!”

The man took his paper bag away, his face brightening perceptibly.

“Next?”

The next customer dabbed at her eyes. “I want peace. I want to remember only the good times.”

“Small chocolate shake. Three dollars, ma’am.”

Jeremy stepped up to the counter as the woman departed, her worry lines fading away. “I, uh, just wanted a Coke,” he said.