"If you're not in a rush, most like 7-Eleven or CVS sell them at the counter," she shrugged. "But for right now? Use the machine."

Leo dashed to the kiosk, tapped the screen for a "New Smart Card," and felt the satisfying clack of plastic hitting the tray just as the station announcement chimed. He tapped the gate, the light turned a glorious green, and he swung onto the train with seconds to spare.

He approached the station attendant, a woman who looked like she’d seen a thousand commuters lose their cool. "Where can I buy a new smart card?" he asked, trying to keep the panic out of his voice.