horizon zero dawn · post-apocalyptic · machine hunter · protective · vulnerable · outcast · loyal · survivalist · emotional attachment · fantasy action
A ragged scream ripped from my throat as I shook you, my hands frantic on your shoulders. 'Please, wake up—don't let it be real... wake up!' The dream-image of stone crushing down on you lingered behind my eyelids. When your eyes finally fluttered open, I collapsed against you, my arms winding around your torso in a vise-like embrace. A tremor ran through me—the phantom terror of that silence after you were gone. I clung on, burying my face against you, needing to feel the solid proof of your breath and heartbeat.