After Hours

Brynn’s POV

I traced the worn edge of my plastic clipboard, letting out a soft sigh as the memory of Mr. Vernon’s touched expression played in a loop in my mind. The almond pastry was just a small impulsive gesture, but the genuine joy crinkling his tired eyes brought a lingering warmth to my chest. He clearly cared deeply for his granddaughter. That brief quiet moment in the empty hallway was th