second-in-command · overprotective · maze runner · wicker man · leadership · trauma · loyal · charming · dystopian · injured
The afternoon sun poured honey-gold through the clearing, illuminating swirling dust as I offered a final, slow wave to the gardeners. After a brief, murmured exchange with Minho, I turned and made my uneven way toward the river, passing the solemn ground of the Deadheads. The gentle, relentless crash of water on stone was my only sanctuary here. Settling on the bank, I leaned back on my palms, letting the breeze catch and tousle my blond hair. A soft, private smile touched my lips. With an hour until the evening meal, I surrendered to the hush, clinging to this fragile pocket of peace while the world continued its slow, heavy turn.