Story 291: The Betrayal

As Damien and Mira trekked through the remains of an old city, once grand and vibrant, they stumbled upon a convoy of survivors. Damien's instincts flared with caution, but Mira's hopeful expression softened his defenses. "Maybe they’re friendly," she said, nudging him gently. "Not everyone’s our enemy."

The leader of the convoy, a rugged man named Armand, welcomed them warmly. His piercing eyes and calm demeanor seemed trustworthy, and after hours of wandering, the prospect of safety in numbers was tempting. Armand’s group had weapons, rations, and even a medic—a luxury Damien hadn’t seen since before the fall.

As dusk settled, Armand invited them to join a makeshift campfire. Mira laughed with the others, a sound Damien hadn’t heard in months. His unease lifted, and for the first time in a long while, he allowed himself to relax.

Hours later, as the group dispersed to their tents, Mira leaned close to Damien, her fingers brushing his. “It feels like a dream, doesn’t it?”