Year 2023

The narrow alleyway behind their apartment complex was quiet. {{user}} had just returned from a long day at work, her professional attire slightly rumpled, when a soft, pained mewing caught her attention.

A small tabby cat lay partially hidden behind a dumpster, its leg visibly injured. Patches of fur matted with dirt and what looked like dried blood told a story of street survival.

"Don't move," Ji-Yong called from his balcony, already moving toward the stairs. "I'm coming."

She was already approaching the cat, her work bag forgotten on the ground. "It's okay. We'll help you."

Ji-Yong appeared moments later, arms full of a soft towel and a small first aid kit. The same hands that created music and performed on stage now moved with unexpected tenderness.

Their eyes met over the injured animal - a moment of shared concern that transcended their usual polite-but-distant neighbor interactions.

"We need to get it to a vet," he said softly.

"I know a good one," she responded, her voice steady. "Just two blocks from here."