Chapter 18

The city of Bangkok seemed to buzz with a new energy, a mix of relief and admiration that hung in the air. Danny, now hailed as a hero, walked the familiar streets with a heavy heart. The battle with Tom was over, but the scars it left behind were deep and raw. Despite the accolades and the grateful smiles from strangers, Danny felt the void where Mr. Wicha's steady presence used to be.

He and Jane tried to return to their routines, seeking comfort in the familiarity of their everyday lives.

One morning, Danny went back to his job. As he sat at his desk, going through spreadsheets, his boss, Mr. Somchai, approached him with a hesitant smile.

"Danny, can I have a word with you in my office?"

Danny nodded, following Mr. Somchai to the corner office that overlooked the bustling city below. The office was a testament to corporate success, with its sleek furniture and impressive view. But today, it felt stifling.

"Danny, I want to commend you for your bravery." Mr. Somchai began, clasping his hands together. "What you did... it's beyond what any of us could imagine. But I also understand if you need some time off. This has been a lot for you."

Danny appreciated the gesture, but he shook his head. "Thank you, Mr. Somchai, but I need the normalcy. Work helps me stay grounded."

Mr. Somchai nodded, a look of respect in his eyes. "If you ever need anything, just let me know."

Leaving the office, Danny felt a mix of gratitude and frustration. He wanted to move on, to find a balance between his old life and the new responsibilities his powers had brought. But it was hard when everyone kept reminding him of what had happened.

That evening, Danny and Jane sat on their small balcony, the city lights twinkling below them. Jane leaned against him, her presence a comforting anchor in the storm of emotions swirling inside him.

"How was work today?" she asked softly, tracing patterns on his arm with her fingers.

Danny sighed. "It was... okay. People are treating me differently. It's like they don't know how to act around me anymore."

Jane nodded, understanding in her eyes. "It'll take time for things to settle. But you did an amazing thing, Danny. People are grateful."

"I know." Danny said, his voice tinged with sadness. "But I miss the way things used to be. I miss Mr. Wicha."

Jane squeezed his hand. "I miss him too. But we have to keep moving forward. He wouldn't want us to be stuck in the past."

Danny nodded, taking comfort in her words. He knew she was right. They had to find a way to live with the changes, to embrace the new reality without losing sight of who they were.

The next few weeks passed in a blur of media interviews and public appearances. Danny found himself thrust into the spotlight, his every move scrutinized by the press and the public. He hated the attention, but he knew it was part of his new life. He used the platform to advocate for understanding and acceptance, hoping to demystify his powers and the events that had transpired.

One day, while walking through a park, a young boy ran up to him, clutching a worn-out comic book. His eyes were wide with excitement and admiration.

"Mr. Danny, can you sign this? You're like a real-life superhero!"

Danny knelt down, smiling at the boy. "What's your name?"

"Aran." the boy said, holding out the comic book.

Danny took the book and signed it, feeling a bittersweet pang. He remembered being at that age, reading comic books and dreaming of heroes. Now, he was the hero in someone else's story.

"Thanks, Mr. Danny!" Aran said, running back to his parents, who smiled and waved at Danny.

As he watched the boy run off, Danny felt a sense of responsibility settle over him. He had been given these powers for a reason, and he needed to use them wisely. But he also needed to find balance, to remember that he was still just Danny, a regular guy with hopes and dreams.

That night, Danny and Jane cooked dinner together, a simple meal that reminded them of the early days of their relationship. They laughed and talked, the weight of recent events lifting slightly as they found solace in each other's company.

After dinner, they sat on the couch, watching a movie. For a little while, it felt like old times. Danny felt a flicker of hope. Maybe they could find a new normal, one that blended their past with the present.

"Danny!" Jane said, her voice soft. "I think we're going to be okay. We have each other, and we'll figure this out together."

Danny turned to her, his heart swelling with love. "You're right, Jane. We will."