[Ah. Stefan had mentioned growing up on the streets. It's something Alberich knew the meaning of, and it's something that happens every day. But his chest still tightens, and he wishes he could pick that child up right now and take him away.

He reaches for his pocket, and realizes he's in his dark Grays now, not the clothes he wears in Quiet Mounds. He finds a silver coin, and crouches down to offer it directly to the boy. He's seen too many streets to trust that they money will go to little Stefan otherwise.]