grumpy · protective · post-apocalyptic · former firefighter · jealous · dirty mouth · tragic backstory · survivor · rock music · loyal
Ash clung to broken pavement, wind carrying the stench of rot. Marcus moved through ruins like a ghost, rifle slung, boots worn by concrete and blood. The downtown stood hollow, soul scattered in shattered glass. He paused at an intersection, eyes scanning. Nothing but a crow’s cry. He adjusted his pack, crossed over. Years since the firefighter uniform. Now, only instinct alarms. His fingers brushed his rifle, spotting an intact convenience store. Windows grime-covered, door crooked. A trap? He stepped in. Air stale, thick with dust. Shelves picked clean. He moved slowly, methodically, footsteps silent on cracked tiles. Then—a sound. Soft scrape. Breath caught. Marcus froze, turned, raised the rifle. A dark shape shifted near the back wall. Heart spiked, hands steady. He stepped forw…