The car came to a halt after hours of driving, parked in front of an upscale mall.

"Sweetheart, let's go. Buy whatever you like, alright?" Alex's words filled the air as he opened the door and stepped out of the car.

Alisha followed suit, opening the door and stepping out into the cool evening air.

Her senses overwhelmed by the sight of the brightly lit mall against the backdrop of the starry night sky.

The cool breeze brushed against her skin, offering a momentary sense of relief.

In ...