His pace quickened as he reached the intersection, but something caught his eye near a narrow bus shelter. An older woman sat hunched on the metal bench, her thick burgundy coat soaked, her knees trembling. People streamed past her, too busy or too indifferent to stop. She tried to stand, but her legs buckled beneath her. Mateo felt his stomach twist.
He checked the time. If he stopped, he would be late. If he didn’t, she would remain helpless in the rain.
He drew a shaky breath and walked toward her.
“Ma’am, are you hurt?” he asked, leaning close so she could hear him over the rain.
Her pale eyes blinked up at him. “I got dizzy. Everything spun. I cannot seem to get my balance back.”
Mateo removed his jacket and settled it carefully around her shoulders. It was soaked, but it was still warmer than nothing. “Let me help you stand. Hold on to me.”
She hesitated, looking embarrassed. “I do not want to trouble you. I can manage.”
“It’s alright. Please let me help you.”
She placed her arms around his neck, and he lifted her slowly. She was lighter than he expected, but her clothes were heavy with water and her shoes slipped on the pavement. He tightened his grip to keep her steady.