At our family reunion, my brother-in-law Tom, a successful but arrogant lawyer, belittled my husband David, a dedicated teacher. Days later, karma struck when Tom’s Ferrari broke down, leading him to a humbling encounter on a crowded bus that changed his perspective on success and respect.
My name is Sarah, and I’m 37 years old. Every year, my family holds a reunion at my parents’ house, a tradition that brings us all together for a weekend of catching up and reminiscing. This year was no different, except for the usual grand entrance of my brother-in-law, Tom.
Young woman | Source: Pexels
Tom is a successful corporate lawyer, known not just for his sharp legal mind but also for his penchant for flaunting his wealth. This time, he arrived fashionably late, driving a brand-new, flashy red Ferrari that screamed for attention.
As the family gathered in the front yard, Tom pulled up, revving the engine to announce his arrival. Everyone’s heads turned, and soon enough, they flocked around the car, admiring its sleek design and luxurious appeal.
Family dinner | Source: Pexels
Tom basked in the admiration, soaking up the compliments and boasting about his latest acquisition. He detailed the car’s top speed, its luxurious interior, and the extravagant price tag with a smug grin plastered across his face. As we sat around the dinner table, enjoying our meal and each other’s company, the conversation naturally shifted to careers and finances.
David, my husband, began sharing a touching story about one of his students who had overcome significant obstacles to succeed. The warmth and pride in David’s voice were evident, and for a moment, everyone was captivated by his story.
Family reunion | Source: Pexels
That is, until Tom seized the opportunity to interject. “You know,” he said, leaning back in his chair with a smug grin, “you’ll never own a car like mine on a teacher’s salary. You should have aimed higher.”
His words cut through the air, turning the atmosphere icy. Everyone around the table fell silent, the joy of the reunion momentarily shattered by Tom’s arrogance.
Arrogant man | Source: Pexels
Lisa, Tom’s wife and my sister, didn’t miss a beat. “Honestly, David,” she added, her tone dripping with entitlement, “why did you settle for such a mediocre job? If you had any ambition, you wouldn’t have to live such an ordinary life.”
David, ever the composed and kind-hearted man, simply smiled and shrugged. “I love what I do,” he replied calmly. “Teaching gives me a sense of purpose that money can’t buy.”
Woman at an outdoor family dinner | Source: Pexels
My parents exchanged worried glances, clearly distressed by the harsh words directed at David. My mom cleared her throat, attempting to change the subject. “So, Tom, how’s work been treating you lately?”
But Tom wasn’t done yet. “Oh, it’s been fantastic,” he boasted, ignoring the tension in the room. “Just closed another big deal last week. The bonus alone could buy two of these Ferraris.”
Man on the street | Source: Pexels
David tried to steer the conversation back. “You know, one of my students recently got a scholarship—”
Tom interrupted again. “That’s great, but really, David, you could do so much better for yourself. Teaching? Come on.”
Lisa nodded in agreement. “You deserve more than just scraping by, don’t you think, Sarah?”
Inside, I was seething. How could Tom and Lisa belittle David like that? I glanced at David, who met my gaze with a reassuring smile, but I could see the hurt in his eyes.
Family picnic | Source: Pexels
“David’s work is incredibly important,” I snapped, unable to hold back. “He’s changing lives every day.”
“Sure, Sarah,” Tom said dismissively. “But at what cost?”
I squeezed David’s hand under the table, my mind racing with anger and indignation. “You know, Tom,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady, “not everyone measures success by the size of their bank account or the price tag of their car.”
Tom rolled his eyes. “Well, maybe they should.”
Man toasts | Source: Pexels
My dad tried again to diffuse the situation. “Let’s all just enjoy our meal. We’re here to spend time together, not to argue.”
But the damage was done. The rest of the family sat in uncomfortable silence, clearly affected by the tension.
As I sat there, fuming, I considered my options. Part of me wanted to lash out and put Tom and Lisa in their place, to defend David’s honor right then and there. But I knew that would only escalate the situation and create more tension at the reunion.
Angry woman | Source: Pexels
Instead, I took a deep breath and resolved to bide my time. Tom’s arrogance would catch up with him eventually, and I had faith that karma would find a way to teach him a lesson. For now, I focused on supporting David, squeezing his hand again to let him know I was on his side, no matter what.
Just a few days after the reunion, David came home with a story that brought a smile to my face. “You won’t believe what happened to Tom today,” he said, setting his bag down and sitting beside me.
Couple talks in bed | Source: Pexels
“What happened?” I asked, curious.
“Well, his Ferrari broke down on his way to a big meeting,” David began. “He was completely stranded and realized he had left his wallet at home, and his phone was nearly dead.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Karma?”
“Definitely,” David chuckled.
Tom’s day started disastrously when his Ferrari broke down on the way to an important meeting. Stranded and frustrated, he realized he had forgotten his wallet at home and his phone was nearly dead.
Man on a bus stop | Source: Pexels
With no other options, he reluctantly made his way to the nearest bus stop. His designer suit and polished shoes looked starkly out of place among the commuters.
As Tom boarded the crowded bus, he felt a wave of humiliation wash over him. The bus jolted as it pulled away from the stop, and he grabbed a pole to steady himself. Glancing around, he was horrified to see David, his brother-in-law, seated near the back, calmly reading a book.
Crowded bus | Source: Pexels
David looked up, a calm smile spreading across his face. He waved and motioned for Tom to join him. With no better option, Tom made his way through the packed bus, muttering apologies as he bumped into other passengers. He finally reached David and sat down, clearly uncomfortable.
“So, what brings you here?” David asked, his tone friendly but with a hint of irony.
“My car broke down,” Tom admitted, clearly embarrassed. “It’s in the shop for a few days.”
Car service | Source: Pexels
David nodded, his smile never fading. “Well, this is my daily commute. The bus isn’t so bad once you get used to it.”
As the bus continued its route, Tom struggled to maintain his composure. The bumpy ride and close quarters were getting to him. Suddenly, the bus hit a pothole, and Tom lost his grip, tumbling into the lap of a stern-looking elderly woman. She scolded him loudly, causing nearby passengers to laugh. Tom’s face turned beet red.
Man in a crowded bus | Source: Pexels
The bus came to an abrupt halt due to a mechanical issue. The driver announced they would have to wait for another bus, as this one couldn’t continue. Tom groaned in frustration, stepping off the bus into the rain.
To make matters worse, his phone rang. It was his boss, furious about the missed meeting. Tom’s excuses fell on deaf ears, and he was reprimanded harshly, losing an important client in the process.
Angry boss | Source: Pexels
When the replacement bus finally arrived, it was even more crowded. Tom found himself squeezed between two large, sweaty passengers, the broken air conditioning making the ride unbearably hot. By the time he reached his destination, his designer suit was soaked with sweat, and his expensive shoes were splattered with mud.
Stepping off the bus, Tom slipped on the wet pavement, landing in a puddle. As he struggled to his feet, David offered him a hand. “Rough day, huh?” David said, barely able to hide his amusement.
A dark bus | Source: Pexels
Tom looked up, defeated. “You have no idea.”
When Tom finally arrived at work, he was late, disheveled, and humiliated. His boss was waiting for him, unimpressed with his appearance and his excuses. He was promptly demoted, losing his prestigious office and being assigned to a cramped cubicle. The day had been a harsh lesson in humility and respect, one that Tom wouldn’t soon forget.
Sad man on a bench | Source: Pexels
At the next family gathering, the atmosphere was noticeably different. As we all gathered at my parents’ house, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. Tom, usually the first to flaunt his latest achievements and acquisitions, seemed unusually quiet. He arrived on time, without his usual fanfare, and parked his now-repaired Ferrari discreetly down the street.
During dinner, Tom surprised everyone by speaking up in a humble tone. “David,” he began, looking directly at my husband, “I owe you an apology.” The room fell silent, all eyes on him.
A family get-together | Source: Pexels
David looked up, clearly taken aback. “For what, Tom?”
“For my behavior at the last reunion,” Tom continued. “I was out of line, and I belittled your career in a way that was completely unacceptable. I’ve realized that success isn’t about material possessions. It’s about making a difference, something you do every day as a teacher.”
David smiled warmly. “Thank you, Tom. That means a lot.”
Happy family | Source: Pexels
If you liked this story, you might enjoy checking out this one. Here, Belle thought she was receiving a precious family heirloom, but on Laura’s birthday, a jewelry appraisal revealed truths that would redefine their family ties. The truth about the fake ring ignited a confrontation that changed everything.
This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.
The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.
Rich Man Falls in Love with Homeless Girl He Sees on the Street and Rushes to Find Her — Story of the Day
He saw a girl begging on the sidewalk and somehow couldn’t get her face out of his mind. He had to know her story.
Wealthy businessman Roger Landers was often annoyed by the sight of the homeless begging on the street outside his office building. There seemed to be more and more of them each year, he reflected.
As he passed a young woman huddled against a wall, a kindly soul dropped a coin in her cup. The woman looked up and smiled at her benefactor and that smile pierced Roger to the heart. In one second, that huddled anonymous annoyance became a lovely radiant woman.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
Roger walked into the building and that moment when the girl’s face was transformed by her smile replayed over and over in his mind. He found himself wondering who she was, what had driven her to live in the pitiless streets of L.A.?
For the rest of the week, Roger found himself almost obsessed by the young homeless woman. He watched her surreptitiously, and once when he dropped a coin in her cup, watched that miraculous transformation at close quarters.
Love can sometimes lurk in the most unexpected places.
He found himself thinking about her, inventing stories about her, little fantasies in which he discovered she was really a reporter writing about homelessness at close hand, or a deeply committed actress preparing for a role…
Finally, on Friday afternoon, after he wrapped his work for the day and dismissed his employees, Roger did what he’d been longing to do all week. He walked up to the girl sitting on the sidewalk and talked to her.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
“Hi,” he said awkwardly. “Would it be okay if I bought you a cup of coffee? You look really cold.” The girl lifted up her face and smiled at him.
“Thank you,” she said sweetly. “I’d like that.” Roger was struck by her low educated voice and her grace as she got to her feet. She was tiny, he realized, a petite 5′ 3″ next to his towering 6′ 2″.
He walked her to a nearby coffee shop and ordered her hot food to go with her coffee. Once again Roger was surprised by her delicate gestures, her manners. This was an educated girl. How had she ended up on the streets?
When Roger saw color flood back into the girl’s face after she finished her hot soup, her grilled sandwich, and her coffee, he asked her exactly that. “How did this happen to you? Living on the streets?”
The girl looked him straight in the eye. A wry smile twisted her lips. “I was stupid, and trusting,” she said. “It’s not an original story. I was in love with this boy in my hometown — Idaho — if you can believe it.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
“My parents disapproved of him, which only made him even more romantic and attractive to me… To cut a long story short, he convinced me to withdraw my college funds and run away with him to L.A. He was going to be a movie star, and I’d be a screenwriter…”
Roger shook his head sadly. “A lot of people come out here every year, less than a handful make it!” he commented.
“Well, I’ll never know.” A tinge of bitterness colored the girl’s voice. “The first night in L.A., we booked into a motel. When I woke up in the morning Kevin was gone, so was my money and everything I had.”
Roger gasped. “Did you go to the police? Call your family?” The girl was shaking her head, tears in her eyes.
“I was too ashamed. I made a deal with the motel manager. She let me sleep in the storeroom and I cleaned the rooms. Some of the guests gave me tips, and I managed to eat. But then her husband started trying…” The girl shook her head. “You know how it is. I left the motel and ended up here, on the streets.”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Pixabay
“What’s your name?” Roger asked gently.
“Emma,” the girl said with one of those radiant smiles. “Emma Sinclair from Preston, Idaho!”
“Well, Emma Sinclair from Preston, Idaho,” Roger smiled back. “I’m Roger Landers from Los Angeles, California, and I’m sending you home.”
Roger took Emma into a nearby mall and he bought her several outfits and a suitcase. He waited at the food court while she changed and came out of the restroom transformed.
He drove her to the bus station and bought her a bus ticket home. He tucked a $100 bill in her hand. “Listen,” he said. “Don’t let any more charming rascals talk you into coming to L.A., OK?”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
Emma was crying and smiling through her tears. She reached up and gave Roger a hug. “Thank you, thank you, and God bless you!”
Roger watched her board the bus with a sinking feeling in his heart. Why did he feel that this was a mistake? He wanted to run after that bus, beg Emma to stay… What was happening to him?
That night, Roger realized that the petite waif with the glowing smile had stolen his heart. “If I let her go, I’ll regret it for the rest of my life!” he told himself. “She’s special, and I love her.”
Two days later, Roger was driving into Preston, Idaho. He stopped at the police station and asked where he could find Emma Sinclair. “Emma?” asked one of the deputies suspiciously. “What do you want with Emma?”
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
Roger blushed. “Well, you see, I met her in LA, and I wanted to see if she was alright…”
The deputy looked him up and down. “You can find Emma at her mom’s laundromat, two doors down. I’m coming with you. I don’t want any more trouble for Emma!”
Roger’s heart was beating fast as he walked into the laundromat and saw Emma. She looked up and her face lit up. At that moment, Roger knew she had been feeling the same way: they belonged together!
So just three weeks after she returned home, Emma headed back to LA once again, but this time she was with a man who loved and cherished her. By the end of the year, Roger and Emma were married, and she became involved in a program to help runaways find their way home.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Unsplash
What can we learn from this story?
- Helping others can be a transformative experience. Roger helped Emma, and in the process, he found his own way to life-long happiness.
- Love can sometimes lurk in the most unexpected places. Roger found love with a homeless waif when everyone expected him to marry a socialite.
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