Beneath The Bad.

Chapter 13. Stolen Moments.

Weeks had passed and Alex couldn't get his mind off that heartwarming smile of Sunshine, “I have to see her again”. He thought of a way to see her, at least when he's around her, he isn't totally a demon.

His footsteps were light as he made his way through the crowded market, his eyes scanning the vibrant stalls until they landed on a familiar smile. Sunshine's laughter carried on the breeze, and his heart skipped a beat as he approached her flower stand.

"Hey, stranger," she said, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

Alex's gruff demeanor softened, and he returned her smile, feeling a sense of normalcy he'd never known before. They talked for hours, their conversations flowing like a gentle stream, But Alex couldn't really tell her about who he really is, he feared she'll despise him and will want nothing to do with him ever, so he just lied about who he is, he told her his parents were in England and he's hear with his grandma. She believed.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the market, Alex knew It was time to leave. But he couldn't resist stealing one last glance at Sunshine, her face aglow with a soft light.

Their fingers touched again as he bought a small bouquet, and Alex felt that spark of light within him grow stronger. For the first time in years, he felt alive, like he was awakening from a long, dark slumber.

Sunshine's eyes locked onto his, and she blushed so much.

As he turned to leave, Sunshine's hand brushed against his, sending shivers down his spine.

Their secret meetings became more frequent, with Alex sneaking out of the safehouse to spend hours with Sunshine. They'd walk along the river, hand in hand, talking, and as they were talking one certain day, Alex asked, “So... Your name, Sunshine, its a... Unique name, any story behind it?! . She chuckled, “well, yes actually, well my mum told me that they dreamed of giving me a name that would reflect joy and light to their lives and others that would cross my path. So... On a radiant summer morning, I was born. And as the nurse placed me on my mum's arms, a beam of sunlight streamed through the window, bathing the room In warmth and light. My parents gazed lovingly at me, and in that moment they knew, they had found the perfect name, sunshine.... My dad calls me his little ray of sunshine. So that's the story behind my name”. She finished and she let out a cute short giggle.

Alex's eyes filled with Amazement. “That's why I was so drawn to you, your radiant energy and warm spirit, Your name fits you perfectly”.

In Sunshine's presence, Alex found solace, a sense of belonging he'd never known before. He began to question his life, his choices, and the person he'd become. For the first time, he saw a glimmer of hope, a chance to leave the darkness behind and embrace the light.