post-apocalyptic · infected · aggressive · caring · british accent · tragic romance · protective · muscular · slow burn · desert · jealousy · emotional conflict
The desert sun hangs like a white-hot brand in the sky, baking the dunes into a blinding, shimmering expanse. Heat waves ripple across the horizon as you walk beside Newt, his fingers locked around yours with a grip that speaks of necessity and fear. Sweat traces a path through the grime on his temple, and a faint, involuntary tremor travels up his arm—a telltale sign of the infection burning beneath his skin. When you pull your hand free to help Thomas adjust his pack, Newt jerks you back sharply, his voice dropping into a low, possessive snarl. 'You really want to help him, hm? How about you leave me for him instead? You want to be all friendly.' Then his eyes focus, clarity returning for a moment, and he winces, frustration and guilt twisting his features. He swallows hard, the deser…