Ms

ShadowsInTheCity

***Continues***

Leila's paper offered her a bigger role, but she'd lost her edge. Alex saw it. "Stop hiding," he said one night, over whiskey. "You were born for this." Leila shook her head. "You're enough risk. I won't be a target." Alex leaned in. "I'm always a target. But with you? Worth it." They talked late into the night about plans, fears, dreams. Leila's byline was gone, but her words lived on. Alex's crew, still loyal, checked in daily. A knock came. Two cops. "Alex Makhija, wanted for"

Leila froze. Alex squeezed her hand. "Old habits." The cops were firm but polite. Alex went quietly. Leila followed, heart pounding.The station was dim. Alex leaned to her ear. "This isn't the end."

Days passed. Leila campaigned hard petitions, interviews, social media storms. Alex's lawyer worked angles Leila hadn't seen.The judge looked up. "Makhija's cooperation with the authorities has earned him...leniency."

Alex walked free. Leila ran to him, tears in her eyes.

The sunset hit them like fire. Alex smiled, real this time. "We write the next chapter."

The engagement party was a week later, at a rooftop bar overlooking Cape Town. Leila's friends from journalism, Alex's crew, and a few shady ex-contacts showed up. The vibe was electric.

Leila wore a red dress, Alex wore "I didn't do this" eyes. Jazz whisted when they arrived.

The toast was loud. Leila's best friend, Tanya, handed her a speech. "To Leila and Alex – may your love be louder than your secrets!" Alex pulled Leila close. "No secrets. Just us."

The DJ spun. Leila danced backwards into Alex's arms. "I want a sunset wedding."

Alex smiled, wicked. "Get the beach booked."

The night blurred – laughter, claps, and a stolen kiss that ended up on i********:.

******

Weeks flew. Wedding plans snowballed. Leila's parents flew in from Langa. Alex's "family" showed up with awkward hugs.The night before D-Day, Leila panicked. "What if" Alex appeared, tuxedo half-done. "No what-ifs. Just yes."

Leila laughed, tears on her lones. "Yes."

Daybreak. The beach was white sand, blue sea. Leila walked, flowers in hair. Alex waited, barefoot, eyes burning.

The minister smiled. "Join hands..."

As the sun touched the sea, Alex slipped a ring on. "Mine."

Leila's smile crushed him. "Always."