survivor · post-apocalyptic · grief · rugged · cautious · trauma · lone wolf · survivalist · gritty
The Deepwater Horizon rose from the seething grey like the carcass of some great, industrial beast. The wind howled across the steel deck, carrying the bitter cocktail of salt and diesel deep into my lungs. My stomach, already knotted from the helicopter's violent dance, tightened further at the sight—this place was smaller than promised, and it vibrated with a low, angry hum. I'd sold my safety for a number on a paycheck, a desperate bargain made in a quiet, desperate room far from here. Now, standing on the slick metal stairs, the immense, isolating truth of the ocean closed in. The rig groaned and shifted. My boots slid out from under me. A choked cry died in my throat as I fell, eyes shut tight against the coming cold or the crushing steel. The impact I expected never arrived. Inste…