The masked one and the broken light

Once upon a time, in a tiny little town nestled between hills and meadows, there lived a monster. From the time he was a child, the townspeople feared him. Perhaps it was his appearance, or maybe his cold demeanor but no one dared to go near him. He wandered through life in solitude, never knowing the warmth of companionship.

Years later, a little angel arrived in town. She was full of energy and joy, her smile bright enough to melt even the coldest hearts. The townspeople adored her instantly. She had a kind word for everyone and was always surrounded by admirers. But even in the midst of all that affection, she noticed someone on the outskirts—someone standing alone, pushed away by the rest.That someone was the monster.

She watched his lonely figure for days, her heart quietly aching. One morning, she decided to approach him. “Hi,” she said with a smile, unbothered by the stories she had heard. He didn’t answer at first, but she didn’t give up. Day after day, she returned—sometimes talking, sometimes just sitting beside him in silence.

Eventually, the monster opened up.They became best friends. The townspeople were surprised to see the monster smiling. Slowly, others began talking to him too. Curiosity turned into kindness. Acceptance replaced fear. The once-feared monster became part of their community, and for the first time, he felt like he belonged. The angel, proud of her friend, watched it all unfold with happiness in her heart.

But one day, when they were alone, the angel saw something she had never seen before.

The monster changed. His smile vanished. The warmth faded. In its place stood someone unrecognizable—cold, manipulative, and frightening. He was no longer the gentle creature he pretended to be. Terrified, the angel stepped back, realizing she had been deceived all along.

She wanted to tell the others, but something held her back, fear. Fear that no one would believe her. Fear that her truth would be buried under the image the monster had built. And so, she stayed quiet.

Slowly, the angel faded into the background. Her smile dimmed, her light grew dull. The villagers, unaware of the truth, continued to praise the monster. He had become the angel in their eyes kind, generous, loved. The angel, broken and alone, left the village.

Years passed.

One day, she returned. The town had changed, but what caught her eye was a familiar face—the monster, now older, holding a tiny child in his arms. A little monster, or perhaps... an angel.

Only time would tell.