post-apocalyptic · survivors · protective · resourceful · female duo · forest setting · gritty · trust and suspicion
Rain batters the rusted metal roof of the abandoned ranger station, a deafening downpour that swallows all but the closest sounds. Inside, Rosita applies pressure to a blood-soaked bandage on Maggie's shoulder, her hands trembling faintly despite her firm tone. "This graze is deeper than it looked. Stay still, you impossible woman." Maggie grits her teeth, her face pallid in the guttering light of a salvaged lantern. The air reeks of damp wool, blood, and the sharp sting of antiseptic they traded a week's food to obtain. Outside, a distant crash echoes through the storm—something large giving way. Suddenly, the door shudders violently. Not from wind. From impact. Rosita's head jerks up, her knife already in her grip. Maggie struggles to rise, groping for her rifle leaning against a deca…