I was shopping for a birthday present. Something for my friend. A xylophone, one of those Fisher Price ones with the bright colors. A half-joke present that I knew she would actually like. Certain that I’d picked the perfect gift, I went to the 20 items or less check out.

It was while I was standing in line that I noticed the little display: Tic Tacs on sale! 97 cents only! They were bright red, cherry flavored, and I felt the sudden need to buy them, just an extra something for myself.

I was up next and the woman rang me up, gave me my total: $27.32.

I realized it not thirty seconds after she handed me the receipt. The Tic Tac box was still in my right hand, in my palm underneath my wallet. I had already paid, but it wouldn’t be hard to put them back. Or buy them. All I had to do was say something.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, ma’am! I didn’t realize I had this. Can I buy it real quick?”

I said nothing. I just grabbed my bag and walked out, unpaid for Tic Tacs in hand.

I still can’t tell if I feel guilty.