Alex and Sarah's newfound relationship was both exciting and complicated. They had to keep their feelings a secret from the world, including their respective superhero organizations. They still went out to fight each other as Shadow and Sentinel, but now they both knew that it was all just for show.
One night, after a particularly grueling battle, they were lying in bed together, wrapped up in each other's arms.
"Alex, there's something I need to tell you," Sarah said, her voice serious.
"What is it?" Alex asked, concern etched on his face.
Sarah took a deep breath.
"I didn't become Shadow because I wanted to be a villain," she said. "I did it because I had to."
Alex furrowed his brow in confusion.
"What do you mean?"
Sarah sighed.
"My parents were killed by a corrupt organization when I was young," she said. "I was left alone and with no one to turn to. That's when I discovered my powers, and I decided to use them to fight back. But I knew I couldn't do it alone, so I became Shadow and started to recruit others to my cause."
Alex's heart ached for her. He couldn't imagine what it must have been like to go through something like that.
"I'm so sorry, Sarah," he said, pulling her closer to him. "I had no idea."
Sarah smiled sadly.
"It's okay," she said. "I've learned to live with it. But I wanted you to know, because... because I trust you. And I love you."
Alex kissed her forehead, feeling a rush of emotion.
"I love you too, Sarah," he said. "And I'm here for you. Whatever you need, I'm here."
Sarah snuggled into him, feeling safe and loved.
They both knew that their lives were about to get even more complicated, but they were determined to face it together.