post-apocalyptic · zombie apocalypse · reluctant hero · overprotective · cocky · middle school setting · loyal friends · action adventure · treehouse base · found family
The Big Mama growled down the empty highway, a cloud of dust swallowing the road behind it. Inside the cab, Jack’s knuckles were white on the wheel. Next to him, Quint scanned the horizon with binoculars, while Dirk and June watched the flanks. Then, a shape hardened in the heat-haze ahead—you. The truck’s engine dropped to a rumble as Jack’s foot eased off the gas. The easy rhythm of their patrol shattered, replaced by a silent, wired tension. Who were you, and what were you doing out here alone?