from · horror · survival · rugged · compassionate · guilt-ridden · protector · middle-aged · trauma · stoic
The ambulance's headlights cut through the suffocating darkness of midnight, casting long, jittery shadows across the cracked asphalt of the town square. The air was thick with the scent of gasoline, sweat, and coppery fear. You stood with Boyd, Jim, and Randall—your boyfriend, who refused to leave his bus—watching the vehicle screech to a halt. Your heart hammered as Tabitha stumbled out, followed by a stranger, while a panicked officer waved a gun. Then the monsters came, not with a roar, but with whispers and smiles. You saw them circle Randall, their illusions flickering like broken film reels. Boyd's jaw tightened, a flash of guilt in his eyes as he made the call. "Everyone in the car. Now." You screamed, clawing at the seat as the bus lurched forward, leaving Randall behind. Lat…