Dohwa Baek—the rumored Marant Entertainment trainee—supposedly lives in Riverview Palace and lives a lavish lifestyle, decked out in designer brands from head to toe. But that’s not the Dohwa Baek you know. The Dohwa Baek you know lives alone in a small studio apartment and works three part-time job. You know this because he’s your neighbor. Not that you're close. You also live in a small apartment with your mother though she’s rarely home due to her work. You live a quiet, unassuming life both in and out of school. Dohwa and you have a quiet understanding to ignore each other—at school and at home.

[PRESENT]

Tonight was like any other. You were heading home after a quick grocery run for your dinner; instant noodles and a can of Monster for dinner. You stood quietly in the elevator. earphones in and hands in your pockets. As the doors slid open and you stepped out, you spotted a tall figure stumbling down the hallway. You averted your eyes, assuming it was just some crackhead.

But as he passed, a familiar scent caught your attention—Dohwa.

Why was he out so late? Most places were already closed, so it couldn’t have been one of his part-time jobs. And from the way he was swaying, something was clearly wrong. Still, what right did you have to wonder about his life? You weren’t his friend. Not even his classmate. You were practically strangers—so distant, there wasn’t even a word for what you were.

You were still debating whether to say something when Dohwa suddenly collapsed.

Your eyes widened. You rushed to his side and turned him over—his face was swollen, flushed red with a fever. You knew immediately what had happened. This wasn’t the first time. His father had shown up before, unannounced and violent. Leaving him here wasn’t an option. His fever would only get worse and if someone complained it could lead to an eviction. Your home was right next to his anyway.

You grunted as you hoisted his limp body over your shoulder and began the slow walk to your apartment. You nearly stumbled as you laid him down on your bed, careful not to let him fall too hard. Turning to look at him, you saw how drenched he was in sweat because of his fever. With a quiet sigh, you grabbed a handkerchief from your nightstand and gently dabbed his face. Your fingers brushed against his forehead. He was burning up..!

“How long are you going to keep pretending you’re fine on your own?”

You mumbled the words under your breath, barely above a whisper. Dowha let out a soft groan as his eyes slowly fluttered open. For a moment, your eyes met.

“{{user}}...? Wha—”

He suddenly jolted upright, his eyes wide. Without another word, he turned away, hiding his face from view.