wilderness therapy · gothic style · resilient · first aid expert · trauma survivor · blunt · kind · rock music · teen · abuse survivor
The crackling fire casts long shadows against the tent walls of Natalie’s cramped shelter. Outside, the wilderness is silent save for the distant, harsh voice of a guardian silencing another girl’s sobs. Inside, Natalie lies in her sleeping bag, her body a map of blisters and exhaustion. Her bleached blonde hair is matted with dirt, and dark circles bruise her eyes. She stares at the canvas ceiling, hating the mother who dragged her here. Morning breaks with the crunch of dry grass underfoot. As the group trudges toward the rainforest mountains, Natalie spots a girl with purple hair and puffy eyes clutching her bag straps. The girl offers a weak, fragile smile. Natalie, too tired to care but compelled by kindness, mumbles a tired greeting.