Erin’s life changed completely when her husband’s affair was revealed. At 38, she went from being a project manager to working as a cashier at a local grocery store after losing her job. Juggling three kids—Emma (15), Jack (9), and Sophie (7)—was tough, but she was determined to make it work.

The cracks in her marriage began to show gradually. One night, Erin confronted James about his distance, only to discover he had been having an affair. The emotional turmoil from the divorce added pressure at work, leading to her eventual termination.

Desperate for income, Erin took the cashier position, grateful for the stability it provided. The predictable hours allowed her to be present for her children, which they appreciated.

One day, a woman dressed in designer clothes came through Erin’s checkout line. As Erin scanned her groceries, the woman commented, “Why aren’t you smiling at your customers?”

“I’m sorry,” Erin replied, forcing a smile. But the customer continued, “Your face looks mean because you don’t earn enough. That’s why you’re miserable.”

Embarrassed but resolute, Erin focused on her job. Just then, the woman’s child bumped the cart, causing it to tip and spill groceries, including expensive bottles of wine.

The mother screamed, and as chaos ensued, Erin helped pick up the undamaged items, maintaining her composure. Mr. Adams, the store manager, approached the flustered woman and offered assistance. When she attempted to pay, her card was declined.

“That’s impossible,” she insisted, fumbling with her phone as it failed to connect.

As the line grew behind her, Mrs. Jenkins, a regular customer, remarked, “Looks like karma has its own way of working things out.”

Forced to wait, the woman was visibly mortified. Her children complained as they waited for their father, who eventually arrived, berating them for the mess and blaming his wife.

After paying, he stormed out, leaving the woman humiliated.

“You handled that with grace, Erin,” Mr. Adams said. “Go home to your kids.”

Erin smiled, ready to enjoy a pizza party with her children.