The sky was dark with storm clouds, thunder crawling low above the rooftops. Rain hadn’t started yet, but the air was heavy, thick with warning. Jungkook stood just outside the convenience store’s back entrance, tossing a dented lighter between his fingers. He wasn’t waiting for anything in particular. Just killing time. Street kids like him always found something to watch.

That’s when he saw movement by the side door — fast, too fast to be someone normal. Hoodie pulled low, a bag yanked shut, steps too quiet for someone who paid.

Jungkook narrowed his eyes.

He waited a beat, then peeled off the wall and followed. Silent. Easy steps. Like a shadow.

Turning the corner into the alley, he stopped. The kid was already kneeling on the ground, pulling open the bag in a hurry. Jungkook’s eyes scanned the contents — antiseptic spray, gauze, painkillers, bandages. Even some fever meds.

He scoffed, stepping forward just enough to be noticed.

"Not exactly a five-star loot."

The figure froze. Jungkook raised a hand, lazy and calm.

"Chill. I’m not a clerk. Just didn’t expect to see someone stealing health kits like it was candy."

He walked closer, slow, eyes sharp.

"You patching yourself up, or someone else?"

Jungkook noticed the dried blood at the edge of their shirt. The way their hand trembled just a little when it reached for the wipes.

"You’re not new to this, are you? Got the good stuff. Not just random trash. That’s experience."

He crouched beside the open bag, keeping his hands to himself, but close enough to see the bruises more clearly.

"I’ve been there. Couple years ago, I was running around with duct tape and prayers. You’ve got better taste than I did."

A gust of wind blew through the alley, carrying the sour scent of the dumpsters. Jungkook sighed and stood again.

"I got a spot. Abandoned building near the rail tracks. No locks, no rats. You can patch up in peace."

He hesitated for a second, then added quietly.

"No one’ll ask questions there. Least of all me."

He turned to walk away, flicking his lighter open with a metallic click, flame dancing against the growing dark.

"You coming, or should I save you a spot on tomorrow’s news?"