Chance Encounters

[oncedevil]

There was a certain art to picking pockets, one needed a delicate touch, quick fingers and a mastery of performance to pull it off without alerting the mark. The act was the biggest part, amateurs ran, alerting everyone around them and foiling themselves. That was the issue Tony had with purse thieves. It was nearly impossible to swipe a purse subtly, and then what did you do with the rest of the contents? Everyone knew purses were more black hole full of old receipts and gum wrappers than actual cash. No, it took more skill to slip away with just a wallet, a little more intimacy. Perhaps that was part of why he liked it so much, the adrenaline rush of knowing that if he didn't pull off his act just right he was liable to end up with a broken nose. Or worse.

Now, by no means did he believe himself the best pick pocket ever, he knew better, he wasn't that arrogant. But he'd refined his art over time and learned how to pick out who would make a good target in a crowd. Not a large man, for one they tended to hit first ask questions later, and for another a fourteen year old kid was not going to be big enough to budge him. Women were out as well, but for more personal reasons. Besides, the purses always proved to be irritating. The absolute best choices he'd found were closer to his age, teenagers with cash and easily distracted. Rich kids could spare a twenty here or there, they rarely paid much attention to their surroundings, and a properly disarming demeanor could serve to be just the ticket to getting out scott-free.

Of course the problem with being so picky meant that opportunities were infrequent, but every now and then just the right mark turned up and Tony wasn't about to let it get away. It didn't help that he was getting pretty hungry, and a warm meal sounded mighty tempting at the moment.

When he spotted the boy he knew he'd be perfect, and made his move. Casual lazy stride, hands loose at his sides as he moved in at just the right moment to crash his shoulder heavily into the boy, aiming to fluidly extract the wallet from his pocket as he spun aside from the force.

"Woah, sorry man, didn't see you there."

Flawless.

Comments

[bronographic]

Dirk of course wasn't exactly expecting to be the target of pickpocketing, but then again, who usually is? So when he got himself ran into mid stride, he nearly didn't catch the fact his wallet was no longer in his back pocket.

Almost, but not quite.

When Tony spoke up with his apology, Dirk's first reaction was to tell him it was alright, no harm done. But the emptiness of his back pocket struck him before he could even open his mouth to speak. Brow furrowing, his hand slid back behind him to feel at his own empty back pocket.

"You certainly saw my wallet. I'll take that back." He said cooly, his hand extending forward expectantly, palm upward.

Of course, he sounded far more calm than he actually felt. Dirk was never one prone to anxiety, but with the scenario before him, he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. This kid looked about his age, though a bit on the scrawny side. But if he was a thug? That meant he could very well be dangerous, who knew if he had a knife on him or maybe even a gun. Dirk was hoping this could be resolved peacefully.

[oncedevil]

A look of surprise, and something near fear, flickered across the teen's features at realizing he'd been caught. In that instant he weighed his options; He could run, but there were too many people around, they'd take notice and he'd likely be caught by security. Fighting over it hadn't even been on the table, for all he knew he was empty handed as far as the wallet went. He could try to bullshit his way out of it but the kid had him pegged, there really wasn't a choice.

He glanced at the wallet in his hand, feigning surprise then shot Dirk a lazily apologetic grin, gently tossing the wallet back at him as he took a few steps back. Don't run, don't cause a scene, but he had to get out of there now.

"Would you look at that? My mistake."

No, not a thug, just a desperate and hungry teenager. He was grateful Dirk was taking this so calmly, hopefully returning the wallet would be enough to pacify him. Tony wasn't certain how much running he could muster right now.

[bronographic]

Perhaps it was the way he looked scared, or the way he gave in and tossed the wallet back without a fuss. Maybe even the way he was stepping back without trying to book it from the scene. He was clearly an expert at his craft, and the sad look to him made it obvious it was a factor of necessity and not greed. Perhaps all of it was what struck Dirk, what made him not get angry, not make a scene, not throw this kid who couldn't have been much older than himself under the proverbial bus.

Upon catching his wallet, he gave Tony a once over before sliding it into his coat pocket. His hand instinctively settling over the wallet while the other slid into the other pocket.

"Hey." He paused a moment, slightly conflicted with himself, but he continued, "Do you wanna go get something to eat?"

Honestly, this kid could have assaulted him instead of giving him his wallet back the way he did, and what would a few bucks being spent on someone so obviously in need hurt Dirk any?

[oncedevil]

Tony was already beginning to turn away, tail tucked and ready to disappear into the crowd when Dirk spoke up again. He paused, expression uncertain as he stuffed his hands into the pockets of his own worn and ragged coat. He looked at Dirk in mild disbelief, almost as if he didn't understand what the kid had said to him.

When was the last time someone offered to feed him? Much less someone he'd just tried to steal from. "Uhm, yeah..." He fidgeted a bit, obviously conflicted himself, but the sharp pain in his stomach was enough to solidify the decision. "You sure?"

He looked harmless enough, and now Tony felt really bad for trying to swipe his wallet.

[bronographic]

And that sealed it.

The way he fidgeted and seemed so tentative to agree... It was what made Dirk feel like he was doing the right thing. This guy clearly was having a hard time, and far be it for Dirk to make it harder. Dirk couldn't fathom what it must be like, having to wander the streets in ratty clothes, pickpocketing people to make it by. He came from a good home, well off, he wanted for nothing honestly.

He nodded in the direction he was originally headed, "Of course I'm sure, c'mon." It was all he really felt he needed to say before he started down the path. But then he realized he was about to pay for a dude's meal without even knowing his name. He spared him a glance.

"The name's Dirk, by the way."

[oncedevil]

Tony would insist that it wasn't so bad, if only to spare himself the pity. He never wanted pity, but a bite to eat from a generous stranger every now and then wasn't so bad.

When Dirk turned away Tony fell into step just behind and off to the side, not out of sight as a gesture of good will. To show that he was keeping his hands to himself, he had no intentions of making Dirk regret his offer after all.

"Anthony. And hey... thanks."

For feeding him, for not calling for help and getting him arrested. Hell stopping and talking to him, it was a level of kindness he rarely saw from people. Being in his position it wasn't often strangers met him with kindness and sympathy.

[bronographic]

And Dirk wouldn't believe him. Living on the streets, never knowing when your next meal will be... that's just no way to live, and the more Dirk thought about it, the more he felt kinda bad.

Dirk offered a nod to Anthony telling him his name, but not much beyond. With that thanks, however, he looked back at him a touch more fully, before looking in front of him again.

"Don't mention it." He said nonchalantly. He still felt a little weird doing this, but he was okay with that. He was doing something nice, maybe a bit nicer than he normally was, but there was just something about Anthony that made him want to help, even if it was only a simple, singular meal.

Luckily for both of them, Dirk was actually on his way to get himself something to eat, and so it wasn't too long of a walk before they're at a little sit down restaurant. Nothing too fancy of course, just a little diner, but it worked. It was one of Dirk's favorite places, one he frequently went to. He even opened the door for Anthony before walking in himself.

With a nod to the woman behind the counter, Dirk took a seat at one of the booths by the front window. His usual spot where he'd often do his homework while enjoying himself one of their delightful entrees. He gestured for Anthony to take a seat right after, grabbing one of the menus preset on the table.

"Get whatever you like." He offered in an even and calm tone. He was feeling a bit more comfortable now, and a bit better now that they made the whole walk without Anthony showing any signs of making him regret this at all.

[oncedevil]

Long ago Tony had found that it was a lot easier to deal with if he just didn't think about it. The more he thought on it, the more he realized just how rough it really could be, and the less he managed to do anything constructive about it. It was a good thing he was pretty good at going with the flow now, and just taking the punches as they were thrown.

It was a little weird, actually a lot weird, but it Tony was quickly filing everything away under the 'don't think too much about it' category. It worked well for him. But this, it meant a lot. Dirk might have known he was helping out, but he really couldn't imagine just how much. A single meal was a live saver, literally, in Tony's world.

He shot the other teen a bit of an amused look at having the door held for him, then waited for him to pick a seat before joining. Promptly he wedged himself into the corner near the window, so that he could keep a wary eye on the rest of the establishment. Logically he knew nothing was going to happen, but that didn't alleviate hard-learned instincts.

Another surprised raise of an eyebrow at the statement as he plucked up a menu for himself. "So, do you usually buy lunch for people who run into you on the street?" There was a bit of a teasing grin there, just trying to lighten the tension a bit.

[bronographic]

Dirk watched him as he slid himself into the corner, almost like an animal trying to hide from potential predators. It was a sad sight to see, but one he shouldn't have been surprised by. Who knew what this other teen had gone through living the way he obviously was. Made Dirk wonder where his parents were, if he even had any. If maybe he was abandoned.

Opening up his menu, he used it somewhat like a shield between them, as he frowned deeply at that train of thought. It honestly was pointless for him to even look at the menu, at this point he knew what he wanted, what he always got. He did, however, peer over the top of it when Anthony spoke up. A quick sort of look, before he lowered himself behind the sanctity the menu offered.

"Not typically, no." The blond answered, allowing a brief pause to fall between them, before adding, "But then again, muggers aren't usually kids my age, or willing to hand over their hard-earned spoils at a victim's request."

[oncedevil]

That was exactly what it was, hiding from predators. It was a dog eat dog world out there, and while Tony had figured out how to keep himself out of most of the line of fire, he knew letting your guard down at the wrong time got you mugged. Usually by people a lot less nice than he was.

The shield didn't bother him, he was using his own in much the same way, trying to hide from the occasional funny looks the waitress shot their way. Mostly his. She was understandably wary, his type didn't show up with fat wads of cash after all, and they weren't running a charity. Tony had no doubt that the only reason they hadn't kicked him out on sight was that he was obviously with Dirk.

"You caught me fair and square. Besides, I didn't want a scene," He was honest about it, at least. He knew what he was doing wasn't necessarily 'right', but right and necessary weren't always best friends. Ever been tackled by a two-hundred pound security guard? It wasn't much fun.

[bronographic]

"Make sense."

He closed his menu, placing it back in the holder it came from. His eyes scanning the diner he's so used to, noting the odd looks that were shot their way, offering the waitress a reassuring smile - or as much of one that Dirk typically offered. It seemed to put her at ease. At least a little.

"Gotta say, you definitely know what you're doing. Had I been a little less aware of myself, you could have made off with more than just this meal." He quirked a brow at Anthony, who he couldn't really see with the menu raised, "Mind if I ask how long you've been doing this?"

[oncedevil]

Tony was still perusing his, if only for something to keep his hands busy rather than fidgeting. He'd already figured out what he wanted.

"Hm?" He considered not answering, it was a little personal, but then again what were the odds he'd ever see this guy again? Pretty slim, what harm could could it do? Besides, he owed him for the meal. "Fishing? Few years now, took a while to get it down. Had to figure out a good method." One that wouldn't end with a broken hand or face, preferably.

[bronographic]

"I'd ask if you ever considered getting a job, but I'm pretty sure a smart guy like you would have if you could have, right?" He wasn't trying to be condescending or rude, more so commenting than anything. He could tell Anthony wasn't stupid, couldn't have been with how slick he was, even if he wasn't slick enough to get past Dirk.

Any normal person would have left none the wiser, but Dirk had always been sort of oddly aware of himself. Which definitely paid in the long run.

It was then that the waitress finally came over for their drinks and order if they were ready. Which Dirk knew he was, he shot Anthony a curious look as if to ask if he was ready, and with a small gesture of his hand that if so, to go ahead.

[oncedevil]

"Funny thing about labor laws, everyone expects you to be over a certain age before they'll risk hiring you, insurance or some shit." That was the excuse he usually got. Not many places hired minors, even fewer hired under sixteen. And of those that did? Well they didn't want a scruffy starving kid hanging around. Figured he was a lawsuit waiting to happen or something.

He'd definitely underestimated Dirk, that was for certain. Someone his age with that level of awareness? Really unusual.

About time, he was starving! Well, okay, that was pretty much always, but today he'd actually get to eat so honestly that was pretty exciting. He ordered the largest burger he'd found on the menu, nothing too fancy, he wouldn't know what to do with fancy, and that sounded delicious.

Once she'd had their orders and was on her way, he turned his attention back to Dirk. "Gotta say, surprised you caught me. Not many people notice that fast."

[bronographic]

Dirk got himself a burger as well, letting her go off. He hadn't commented on the labor laws thing, it merely confirmed what he was assuming. Anthony had to be his age, or damn well close to it. Not even 16. That's... depressing.

When Anthony spoke up again, Dirk rose an eyebrow at him, before glancing to the side, "I make an effort to be aware of my surroundings and my own person. It certainly pays off."

He might not have noticed Anthony's approach, but he made up for it by being aware of his missing wallet.

[oncedevil]

Nope, not even 16. He made due when he could, but times were tough and cash was short. Sometimes you had to do what you had to do to survive.

"That's good, might save your life someday. You see a lot of people wrapped up in their own little worlds, like they don't even realize there's anything outside their bubble." Which was especially true when it came to people like him. A lot of people liked to pretend the homeless weren't there, treated them like they were invisible, or worse yet garbage that needed to be cleaned up.

But he wasn't about to go on a rant about that sort of thing. Again, the habit of not thinking too hard on it kicked in to keep his mouth shut.

[bronographic]

"Can't say I'm not wrapped up in my own little world most the time, I just know how to multitask is all." Which is actually true. Dirk was always pretty talented with balancing several tasks at once, and even if he was deep in thought, he still could keep his wits about him.

He grew silent, however, leaving himself to his own thoughts really as he looked out the window. Watching people walk by. He wanted to do more to help, but what honestly could he do? He didn't really even know this guy, but that didn't stop him from giving a shit. Sometimes he seemed to give too much of a shit, and there was no stopping it.

Was really troubling sometimes.

[oncedevil]

"Well, you're doing a better job than the rest of us, then." Tony replied with an amused smirk, but no mockery in his tone. He meant what he said, he just always tended to sound like he was joking around.

He let Dirk have his peace, growing silent himself. Tony never was very good at idle conversation, and was just as content with being quiet as being noisy. Dirk had already done more for him than he would have ever asked for. It was rare to meet someone genuinely generous, but somehow Tony knew that Dirk wasn't going to ask for anything in return.

It was strange to think he'd really like to talk to the guy again someday, even if he doubted it would ever happen. Now that he thought about it, it was kind of strange Dirk was out on his own like that, no group of friends or anything. Maybe he'd just interrupted him on an errand or something.

[bronographic]

He definitely didn't interrupt him on an errand, and it's more the former than anything. Dirk wasn't a very social creature, though he did on some level crave social interaction. He was just largely introverted for the most part, and not much of a social butterfly anyway.

He was always alone most the time, parents busy with work, not having too many people he'd called friends. Especially with the school he went to, he didn't exactly want to befriend any of them. His interests just weren't that of typical boys his age with the type of income his parents had. Somehow, with this short interaction with Tony, he's felt more comfortable with him than he had nearly any other kid his age... and this guy is a homeless pickpocket.

He wasn't sure what that said about him.

He really didn't get much more time to his own thoughts before the waitress stopped by to give them their drinks: Dirk having ordered himself a coke. He gave the waitress a quiet thanks before taking a drink, his eyes leveling on Tony. This silence had gone on far too long.

"So, are you usually around this area a lot?"

[oncedevil]

It said he was a pretty decent guy, as far as Tony was concerned. Not the type to judge someone's worth by their wealth, or severe lack thereof. If he knew more about Dirk, he'd probably feel a little bad for him. Being lonely sucked, he knew that quite well. Sometimes the nicest thing in the world was just being able to sit down and talk to someone without having to keep up appearances. Whatever those may be.

For Tony it was an orange soda, since they didn't have any berry flavors. It wasn't often he got soda, so he was admittedly taking some small advantage of the situation. Dirk had said get whatever he wanted, though, so he wasn't going to feel guilty about it.

"I move around a lot. You hang around one place too long, people start to complain. Why, worried I'll bump you again? I won't if that's the case." Nah, Dirk had been generous to him, he was off-limits now. You didn't take advantage of good people, there weren't nearly enough of them around anymore.