Can’t Fight the Moonlight
by Izzi
Written in September 2008

Author's note: Jerry was arrested by the FBI and whisked off to parts unknown; Kate’s left Sonny for a more powerful “coffee importer”. Neither Alexis nor Sonny seem to be too distraught over the events; they are currently both single.

“Excuse me, could you tell me where the personal hygiene section is?” Alexis asked a passing saleswoman. “It used to be here.”

“We’ve since moved it to the second aisle down,” was the answer she received.

“Thank you.” She smiled courteously, proceeding down the aisle at a leisurely pace.

It was 3 a.m., and Alexis was grocery shopping. Dressed in sneakers and an old tracksuit, with her hair hanging loosely down her back, Alexis felt relaxed. She enjoyed the privacy and quiet of the supermarket at this hour; she was just an anonymous single mom buying groceries—she could send her brain to green pastures.

After picking out a few items, Alexis made her way to the instant food section. She was glad to see its location hadn’t changed.

Alexis’ eyes took in the variety of 5-minute microwave foods that she lived on. It was at moments these that she really really loved America.

Suddenly, she felt something brush against her back and heard a familiar voice say, “I’m sorry.”

“Sonny?” she said, turning around.

He was standing in front of the pasta aisle with his shopping cart, which seemed to be the most likely culprit of what had brushed against her back.

“Uh, hi, Alexis.” He seemed as surprised as she was.

Her mind wasn’t quite sure how to respond, but her eyes were drawn to Sonny’s unusual outfit. He was wearing a casual short-sleeved shirt, dark blue jeans, and brown loafers.

“You in jeans?” She arched an eyebrow. “Must be a special occasion.”

“I’m trying to keep a low profile.”

“By wearing jeans?”

“I can hardly be unnoticeable if I’m waltzing around in a Batman cape, looking like the Grim Reaper.”

“Waltzing around? Grim Reaper? Didn’t know you saw yourself that way.”

“I do own a mirror, you know. And I hear things.” Sonny smiled. “But look at you. Haven’t seen you in a tracksuit in a long time.” His eyes squinted slightly. “Is it supposed to be pink?”

“It used to be red; now it’s just old,” Alexis replied with a shrug.

“At least with old you know what to expect.”

“But there’s no excitement in trying it on and wearing it for the first time.”

“But there’s no disappointment if it doesn’t fit. Old can be comforting.”

“And comfortable,” Alexis conceded. She enjoyed the freedom of movement her sports attire allowed her, without having to worry about some little kid looking up her skirt.

“And if you’re creative, there are a number of ways you can spice up old with a few elements of new.”

“Why do I feel like we’re not talking about my clothes anymore?”

Sonny chuckled before changing the subject. “So anyway, interesting to find you here at this hour.”

“There just aren’t enough hours in the day.”

“It’s very peaceful here at night.”

“No screaming kids or frustrated parents.”

“No lines at the register.”

“But sometimes I feel guilty because these people have to work the graveyard shift for a crappy wage.” Whispering, she added, “So I tip.”

“You truly are one of a kind, Alexis Davis.”

Alexis felt color rush to her cheeks. “Stop it, Sonny.” She looked at her feet.

Alexis was always newly exasperated with her inability to receive or even deflect compliments, especially from him. She wished there had been a class at Yale instructing her how to effectively manage the charm of one Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny nonchalantly continued the conversation as if oblivious to her discomfort. “You know what I do? I always buy food in bulk and then accidentally leave one of the grocery bags behind. I’m sure the first few times they were expecting me to come back for it, but now I just get knowing smiles, especially from the lady at the cheese counter. It’s kind of nice.”

“And what you do is kind of cute.”

Did she just say cute? She hadn’t been in his presence for longer than five minutes, and he was already getting to her. She sighed mentally; she couldn’t afford to have her brain at green pastures after all.

He interrupted her thoughts. “All the lengths we go to, just because we can’t go to the supermarket at a decent hour like normal people.”

“We never were normal people, Sonny.”

“Touché.” Sonny smiled.

“Anyway, what brings you to a supermarket at this hour? Don’t you have minions doing all your menial labor?”

“Like I said, I’m trying to stay on the down low, and since I love to do my own shopping, here I am.”

“Now that’s something every woman in America wants a man to say. The shopping part, I mean.”

Sonny chuckled. “Even you?”

“I’m a woman, and I live in America,” was her coy reply.

“Such a legal eagle; what a surprise.”

“As surprising as it is to find you in the pasta section.”

“And you in the instant food section! How you manage to stay alive with your nutritional standards is beyond me.”

“And how you manage to live with your moral standards is beyond me.”

“Ouch.” Sonny averted his eyes, focusing intently on the shelf behind her.

Alexis’ gaze dropped to her feet for the second time in ten minutes. Had she crossed the line? After all, he seemed to be trying hard to stay out of the mob and turn his life around. Unlike the father of her other daughter. Shouldn’t she at least try to be supportive and not take cheap shots at him?

“It looks like they’re out of your favorite brand of popcorn,” Sonny said cheerfully, pointing to an empty space on the shelf behind her.

Alexis smiled. “No, that was me. I got someone to take the whole box to the checkout counter. You can never have too much popcorn.”

“Well, you certainly can’t,” Sonny said with a wink.

Alexis was relieved. They were back to normal—whatever normal was.

“Yeah, well, you know me,” she said. He knew her far too well.

“So what else have you got in there? Any source of protein, vitamins, fiber?” Sonny asked with friendly sarcasm as he curiously peeked into Alexis’ cart.

Much to his misfortune, her shopping cart was empty except for three supersize boxes of sanitary pads and two supersize boxes of tampons.

Sonny went bright red.

Alexis laughed.

Trying to diffuse his embarrassment, Sonny reverted back to humor. “Buying in bulk is good for the economy.”

Alexis gave him a warm smile. This was fun. And nice. And comfortable. Surprisingly so. Perhaps it was the neutral rendezvous point. Not that this was a rendezvous.

“And what about you?” she asked as she peeked into Sonny’s cart.

Her eyes identified fruit, vegetables, yoghurt, cheese, three different types of pasta, and—a supersize strip of condoms.

“I see you buy in bulk too.”

With a confused expression, Sonny followed her gaze to the strip of condoms.

“Oh, that. That’s just wishful thinking.”

Alexis was stunned by his candor. Was former mob boss Sonny Corinthos admitting that he wasn’t getting any?

“As I recall, you never had any problems finding women.”

“I don’t, but I don’t want just any woman.”

“Oh.” Luckily, her brain quickly recovered. “Why do you need three different types of pasta?”

“The curly is for tomorrow’s special tomato sauce. The kids like the bowtie kind, and macaroni is classic.”

“Who are you having over tomorrow?”

“No one,” Sonny said quietly.

Alexis realized she’d just put her foot in her mouth. “I think it’s nice that you make an effort to make meals matter even if it’s only for yourself. I can’t do that for my family, let alone myself. If it weren’t for instant food and takeout, I’d probably starve.”

“Speaking of, maybe you should step away from the microwave stuff, and we can try to fill that cart of yours with some pediatrician-approved foods.”

“You think you’re so funny, don’t you?”

Sonny grinned and nodded.

“I just need a sec,” she told him, turning to her favorite section again. Her quick hands tossed a potpourri of Top Ramen noodles, Campbell’s soups, Chicken of the Sea tuna, Quaker oatmeal, and Pop-Tarts into her cart as she expertly maneuvered it down the aisle.

“Done!” she said proudly.

“Looks like you know your aisle.”

“You should see me at the frozen foods section.”

Before they turned the corner, Sonny dropped two boxes of pasta into her cart. She looked to him for an explanation, but all she got was a smile in return. Alexis shrugged; someone else in her house would have to figure out what to do with it.

They strolled through the supermarket, aisle by aisle, never picking the same product. Sonny continued to drop items into her cart at random intervals. There was no point in arguing with him; he was just trying to be helpful, and nutrition was certainly his area of expertise—along with organized crime, coffee imports, and designer shoes. At least he was versatile.

“I thought Viola did your shopping,” Sonny commented.

“Usually, but she’s visiting her parents this week. To tell you the truth, I don’t feel comfortable asking her to run errands and do household chores—I hired her as a nanny. When she comes back I’ll surprise her by having the fridge and food shelves stocked full.”

“Careful she doesn’t have a heart attack.”

Alexis gave him a glare. “Very funny. She’ll probably think Sam did it. I feel like such an idiosyncrasy sometimes; mothers are supposed to be homey and domestic, not honey, wait three minutes for the microwave to do its magic, and then you can eat.”

“Sure, your domestic skills could use some honing, but don’t cut yourself short; you’re a great role model for the girls of how smart and independent a woman can be.”

“Thank you,” she said quietly.

Had she just managed to accept a compliment?

Sonny smiled, his tell-tale dimples showing.

Why did he have to be so damn charming? Not to mention attractive.

Their carts threatening to spill over with food, Sonny and Alexis were carefully observing the snacks aisle. She noticed him pick out a large bag of brownish nuts she didn’t recognize.

“What’s that?”

“Almonds.”

“Still in their shells?”

“Yeah.”

“You crack them yourself?”

He smiled. “Effective anger management.”

She wasn’t sure if he was joking or not. Probably not.

“That reminds me,” Alexis said, as she reached for a packet of sliced blanched almonds that she and Kristina both liked.

Sonny raised his eyebrows. “Opposites attract.”

“Isn’t that a little been there, done that?”

Sonny just smiled and rubbed his chin in response.

“Well, I think I’m done,” Alexis said, eying her cart. “I’m not sure all this food will fit into my kitchen. I don’t think I’ve ever had so much food in my house at the same time.”

Sonny laughed.

Alexis gave him a reproachful look.

“Let’s go then,” Sonny said, guiding his cart to the register.

Alexis followed, proceeding to checkout and tipping generously. She smiled, noticing Sonny leave two paper bags at the other register.

Exiting the store with their carts of bagged groceries, Alexis’ eyes blinked quickly, needing time to adjust to the darkness after the bright glares of the supermarket lighting.

She turned to Sonny. “Well, I better go. Thanks for helping me with shopping.”

“I’ll walk you to your car,” he offered.

“That’s okay, Sonny, you have a lot of stuff to carry too.”

“I just want to make sure you get to your car safely. It’s dark, and psychos love parking lots at night. Don’t you watch the news?”

“I’m buying groceries at 3 a.m. Do I look like I have time to watch the news?

“Fair enough, but I’m still going with you.”

Alexis shrugged.

They strolled to Alexis’ silver Lexus and loaded it with her newly bought groceries.

“Thanks, Sonny.”

“Anytime.”

“But what about you?” she asked in a girly voice. “Are you going to be okay walking to your car?” she continued, giving him the most naïve look she could manage.

“Uh, yeah.”

“But what about all the psychos?” Alexis continued teasing.

“I’m a big boy. Besides, look at these.” He pointed to his flexed biceps.

Alexis rolled her eyes. “Not that I’m not in absolute awe of your masculine strength,” she said, “but can it stop a bullet?”

Sonny tilted his head in acknowledgement.

“I didn’t think so. I would feel better if you let me walk you and your cart to your car. I need to return mine, anyway.”

“I guess, in the spirit of gender equality, I can let you walk me to my car.”

Turning back, Sonny and Alexis walked side by side, returning Alexis’ cart, as they talked about Kristina’s grades and extracurricular activities.

Reaching Sonny’s black SUV, he unloaded the shopping cart and returned it to the designated cart spot next to his car.

“It looks like my work here is done,” Alexis said.

“I’m not going to let you walk back to your car alone.”

“But my car is just behind that car!” She pointed. “And if you walk me, then we’re right back where we started.”

“You can drop me off at my car.”

“I can’t believe this,” Alexis said, as her frustration began to surface.

“And I can’t believe you don’t watch the news.”

“Fine, let’s go.” Alexis headed to her car, and he quickly followed.

Approaching her Lexus, she noticed something move behind a red Saab. Sonny’s arm stopped her, as his body quickly stepped in front of hers.

A few moments later, a running figure was briefly revealed under the moonlight before being entirely swallowed by darkness.

“I know what you’re thinking, so you don’t even have to say it,” Alexis said, unlocking the car. “You were right. Get in.”

Sonny walked to the other side and got into the passenger’s seat.

The darkness of the night had seeped into the car, but the moon’s glow cast enough light for Alexis to see Sonny. He was staring directly through the windshield in front of him, his jaw clenched and his eyes alert.

“What’s wrong, Sonny?” she asked.

When he didn’t reply, she tried again, “Sonny, talk to me.”

He still didn’t answer.

Her fingertip reached to his chin, gently turning his head to face her.

He blinked, but his facial expression remained unchanged. “I’m just so angry with you right now, Alexis, I could just …” his growling voice trailed. He took a deep breath. Then, in a deceivingly calm voice, he said, “You should know better than to walk around dark parking lots in the dead of night.”

Alexis could tell from the fisted hands on his thighs that he was fighting the urge to hit something.

“I can take care of myself, Sonny,” Alexis replied matter-of-factly.

“No one can take care of themselves in the middle of the night at a dark parking lot. Who knows what that psycho was thinking? He could have robbed you, attacked you, killed you—or worse.” Sonny swallowed. “And what could you have done? You don’t carry weapons.”

“I have pepper spray,” she said softly.

That got a weak smile out of Sonny.

“You know what I mean, Alexis. And don’t make this into a joke. You are the D.A.; you of all people should know the number of ways a person can get hurt in this town. You can’t blame me for being worried.”

“I appreciate your concern, and you are right. I’m glad you were here with me tonight.”

He looked into her eyes as if to figure out if she was being sincere or just trying to placate him. To answer his doubts, she reassuringly placed her hand on his fist.

When he didn’t respond, she caressed his knuckles in gentle circular motions.

She felt Sonny’s fist soften and then open, his palm resting flat on his thigh.

She continued to caress the back of his hand; there was something comforting in the knowledge that she still had the power to soothe his anger.

Her eyes watched her own hand finally rest on top of his. Her fingers found themselves curling through his as her fingertips connected with the rough skin of his palm. He responded by embracing her fingers with his own.

“Promise you’ll be more careful next time?” he whispered, squeezing her hand.

Her eyes locked with his once again. “I promise.”

The darkness in his eyes slowly dissipated, and Sonny smiled.

With the tension gone, Alexis suddenly became aware of the intimate connection of their hands, which caused tingles to run through her body, as the sight of his dimples woke the butterflies in her stomach. His mere presence threatened every aspect of her self-control.

Could she do it? Should she do it? Would she do it?

Suddenly her lips were on his, kissing him feverishly. He lost no time, making her moan as he slipped his tongue into her mouth. Releasing her hand, he ran his fingers through her unmade hair, as her fingers moved sensually up and down his back. He couldn’t help but echo her moan. As their tongues battled, their hands roamed down each other’s bodies in a desperate attempt to connect.

The passionate kiss was cut short by their need for oxygen.

Gasping for air, Alexis rasped, “Are you thinking the same thing that I am?”

“And that would be?”

“Making your wishful thinking into a reality.”

He answered by pulling her to him, his mouth assaulting her neck. Sounds of pleasure escaped her throat, as he left moist marks along her delicate skin, leading all the way to her mouth. When his lips found hers again, her tongue slipped through, as she squeezed his inner thigh. He gasped loudly, grabbing her wrist and placing her hand on his chest. Her fingers focused on the buttons of his shirt, as he unzipped her tracksuit. Only a cotton t-shirt separated his skin from hers. He cupped her breasts, grazing them with his thumbs. She whimpered in response, which only served to fuel his desire to touch her everywhere. He increased the pressure of his caresses, as her fingers finally touched the smooth plane of his bare chest.

“So much for been there done that.”

“No one ever said you can’t go there and do it again.”

He groaned as her mouth found its way to his earlobe.

“The condoms are in the passenger’s storage compartment,” she rasped, reaching for his belt buckle.

“You want to do it in the car?”

“Is my car too uncomfortable for you, Mr. Satin Sheets?”

“I would have sex with you against a barb wire.”

“Same time, tomorrow?”

“I’ll bring the condoms.”

“I’ll bring the wire.”