She was about four, pushing a tiny grocery cart with wobbly wheels, plastic tiara slightly askew and sparkly shoes lighting up with every proud step. Her mom looked exhausted — scanning coupons, juggling bags, and keeping one eye on her little shopper.

As they rolled past the flower section, the girl caught sight of an older man standing alone, hands in his pockets, gaze somewhere far away. She lit up and shouted, “HI, PRINCE!”

A few chuckles echoed down the aisle. The man? He grinned like he'd been handed a crown.

Mom blushed. He walked over slowly, picked up a bouquet, and said, “This one’s for the Queen and her court.”

He wasn’t being flirty. He was being kind. And maybe — just maybe — he felt seen for the first time that day.