The sky was grey as the clouds covered the city with a depressing overcast, Yongguk’s heavy-duty boots could be heard crunching against the leaves and fallen bits of bark as he stomped along the footpath. He was dressed for comfort rather than to impress anyone, wearing nothing but a light grey hoodie, dark jeans and one of the many pairs of boots he once shared with his twin brother. Alongside him, trotting at the same speed was Tigger. Her sleek black coat was soft as it brushed up against his hand every so often.
Although he was quiet, Yongguk’s mind was running crazy. He had been thinking about so much lately, including what his future held. If he would even have a future, it didn’t surprise him that there was the chance that he may not make it past the age of 30. He could smell the sweet scent of food getting closer with each step he took, and he knew they were getting closer to their destination. The market was by far Yongguk’s heaven on earth, there he could get everything he needed and when he wasn’t given his belongings of choice for free, he only had to trade cheaply. It was a win – win for Yongguk, and Tigger.
A few steps later, and Yongguk had made it to the market. Tigger followed her master up the stairs, her paws clapping against the cement as she stuck close behind Yongguk. Not daring to leave his side until told otherwise. Stopping at the top of the stairs, Yongguk looked around and thought about what he needed and where was the best place to retrieve everything that was on his mental list.
After figuring out what he was there for, Yongguk began walking around.
Passing people who were stepping within his comfort zone, his and Tigger’s. Her feet kept up with Yongguk’s fast pacing steps until he came to a stop, and when he did she followed. Sitting down on her backside beside him, still close. “Oh look who it is.” An elderly woman stood to her feet once she noticed she had customers. Yongguk smiled, noticing her face and voice. “How are you today dear?”
Yongguk loved coming to the stand that had pet treats, toys and supplies like food and furniture. The elderly lady had helped Yongguk get Tigger’s health back to outstanding standards, she had also given Yongguk everything he needed. And always insisted on him keeping his trades, telling him that whatever he had, was no use there. And this day was going to be no different, Yongguk could tell. “I’m pretty good, ‘yaself?” He responded.
The conversation was held for a few minutes before Yongguk’s attention dropped to his side. His entire body went into panic as he realized his dog was missing. Tigger had disappeared from Yongguk’s side, and it wasn’t until he heard the happy dog barking in the distance that he began searching for her.
