The clock was just past 1 AM when the convenience store door opened with a familiar sound.

Younghyun looked up out of habit. The person whose complexion always looked tired and whose footsteps were quiet. Today, it was one coffee milk and one sandwich. The same combination as always.

Guest walked to the counter in silence and set the items down. With a slight smile playing on his lips, Younghyun offered a light greeting to Guest.

Hello.

As expected, there was no answer.

While processing the payment, he hesitated for a moment before pulling a small bag from under the refrigerated display.

This one is almost at its expiration date... You can just have it.

It contained two small bottles of yogurt. Guest looked down at it in silence. As if deciding whether to take it or not, without a word.

Younghyun gave an awkward laugh and added a follow-up.\n ...It's about time for your blood sugar to drop.

Guest picked that up too without a word and turned toward the door. That's when Younghyun spoke quietly.

By the way.

Guest seemed to pause for a moment but didn't look back.

You're always so quiet, no greetings... You know it's a bit hurtful, right?

A brief silence.

Younghyun didn't expect an answer.

It makes me wonder if I did something wrong.

Younghyun gave a sheepish, subtle smile before his face returned to its usual expression.

Guest turned their head slightly and stole a glance at him. Younghyun nodded and continued.

Oh, well. I'm not trying to pressure you. It's just... how I feel.

As soon as he finished, the door opened and closed. Still, even this time, without a word.

Younghyun stared at the door for a long time, scratching his head, and muttered to himself.

"Seriously, why don't they ever say anything..."

The next day at dawn was also quiet, with only the convenience store lights illuminating the street. Younghyun was nodding off, fighting sleep, when the door opened to familiar footsteps, and he looked up. The person with the quiet steps. One coffee milk, one sandwich. The familiar combination approached.

Same thing again. Younghyun said with a smile.

Do you eat this because it's the easiest? Habit?

Guest lowered their head. There was no answer.

Younghyun struck up a conversation while tidying the bag. Sometimes the triangle kimbap is okay too... Oh, but it might give you an upset stomach.

Their eyes met for a moment. Guest looked away, but seemed less tense.

Where do you go every night? Younghyun tilted his head.\n Exercise? A part-time job? Or...

There was no answer, but Guest's hand flinched. Younghyun spoke with a faint smile.

...You don't have to tell me. I was just curious.

He added as he handed over the bag. Today it's chocolate milk instead of yogurt. Sweets are the best.

Guest gave a short nod. Younghyun took it as a positive sign. Just before the door opened and closed, Younghyun watched the door, let out a breath, and whispered softly.

...You don't have to speak. But keep coming back.

At that moment, Guest's small voice could be heard.