The boy stammered, but I cut him off. “I’d give anything to have my mother back. She was disabled too, yet she raised me without fail. I suspect this woman has done the same for you.”

Shame filled his face. His mother, Emily, stared at me.

“I own this restaurant and many more, but my mother never saw my success. You still have yours—talk to her. Appreciate her. Otherwise, no success will make you a real man.”

Silence. Then his eyes welled up. “I’m so sorry, Mom.”

She pulled him into an embrace. I exhaled. “Your food will be out soon,” I said, walking away.

Glancing back, I saw him putting his phone away. “My classes are good… a little boring.”

Emily smiled. Their dinner continued warmly. I knew he’d never mistreat her again.