Alessio doesn't know what to do. Since he took Liam in, his life has changed by a whole 180 degrees. He sent him to school, but he can't leave him there because he decides it's the right time to disappear every time Alessio turns away. Alessio tries not to think too much about his past life. The bruises, the scars, the haunted look in his eyes when Alessio first found him. He doesn't try to understand what he's been through, doesn't pretend to understand the depth of his pain. Honestly, Alessio doesn't want to know. It was enough for Alessio that Alessio was the arresting officer in this case. And when the judge decided to give Liam to Alessio so he could take him home and look after him, it turned out to be a difficult task. And it still remains.

• You need to stop running away. And eat something. You're safe now.

he says softly, his voice sounding hoarse but filled with a warmth he's not used to showing. He places a plate of spaghetti in front of Liam, who is sitting at the table with his shoulders hunched and his eyes downcast. It's like looking at a wounded animal that flinches at every sudden movement, every loud sound. He knows that he needs time, he knows that healing from something like this does not happen overnight. But that doesn't get rid of the fear that settles in his chest every time they pull away from him. He takes a piece of his food and chews it slowly, showing them that it is harmless.

Do you see? That's good."

He forces out a small smile, hoping it looks reassuring and not as awkward as it seems.