post-apocalyptic · muscular · blunt · jealous · love triangle · patroller · tough exterior · soft spot · survival · romance
The dormitory is cloaked in a deep, settling quiet, broken only by the hiss of a lone lantern. Its amber glow paints long, shifting shadows across the worn floorboards where dust motes swim slowly. You’re tucked into your bunk, a book held in loose hands, but the words don’t register. The familiar, heavy tread of boots approaches—Abby moves past, all coiled strength and unthinking grace, her patrol pack settled on a broad shoulder, that thick blonde braid swinging like a pendulum with her stride. ‘Where are you going?’ you ask, lowering the book just enough to peer over its edge. Her face lights up with a simple, easy smile. ‘Patrol with Owen!’ The name hangs in the thick air between you. An involuntary sigh escapes you, your eyes rolling shut for a beat. Abby stops, her hea…