The Apocalypse

18

As the sun began its ascent on the horizon, casting hues of warm gold across the waking world, Maeve found herself already wide awake, completely engrossed in one of the books Dylan had so thoughtfully provided. The words on the pages seemed to dance before her eyes, weaving intricate tales and carrying her away to distant realms of imagination. Gratitude filled her heart, as she couldn't thank Dylan enough for the precious gift of the books.
Seated comfortably inside the truck, Maeve immersed herself in the captivating narrative, her mind consumed by the characters and their extraordinary journeys. Time seemed to slip away as she turned page after page, effortlessly devouring the words on the paper with her voracious appetite for knowledge and adventure.
Meanwhile, Sophie, still in the depths of slumber, remained oblivious to the world unfolding around her. Maurits, seated in the front of the truck, occasionally stole glances at Maeve through the rearview mirror, unable to resist the magnetic pull of her presence. He marveled at her swift reading prowess, amazed by the speed at which her eyes scanned the lines, her mind processing the words with remarkable swiftness.
"Wake up, Sophie. We're hitting the road in ten minutes," Maurits informed Derek, who scanned the surroundings with binoculars, vigilant for any signs of life or potential threats. Sensing Derek's urgency, he nudged Sophie gently, only to find her dagger pressed against his neck in an instant.
"Bitch," Derek spat, skillfully disarming Sophie just as quickly. Despite the tension, Sophie couldn't help but burst into laughter.
"Sorry, mate," she apologized, her laughter still lingering in the air. Meanwhile, Maeve momentarily glanced up from her book, her knees pulled close to her chest, chin resting on her knees, before her attention returned to the pages.
Returning from his brief bathroom break, Dylan rejoined the group. "We should get going. I heard an alarm go off from a car while I was taking a piss!" he warned, heightening the sense of urgency.
"Alright, everyone into the truck," Maurits commanded, his voice laced with authority. The group wasted no time, hastening their movements as noises began to draw the attention of nearby walkers.
Sophie sat down beside Maeve. Maeve looked up at him with big round eyes.
"Does Beth die?" She asked the woman beside her. Sophie her eyes grew wide. Caught off guard by her question, Sophie's own eyes widened.
"You're reading Little Women?" Sophie asked, reaching out to touch the book's cover to confirm. She turned her attention back to Maeve, intrigued by her interest in the story.
Maeve persisted, her voice filled with curiosity and concern. "Does Beth die?"
Sophie's gaze shifted momentarily to the front of the vehicle, where Maurits sat, his watchful eyes already fixed upon them. Sensing the weight of the question and the significance it held, Sophie struggled to find the right words to respond. Her mind raced, desperately searching for a way to shield Maeve from the heartbreak that lay within the story. She certainly didn't want Maurits angry at her because she made maeve cry. They were not safely in the survivors town to be left alone here was a good chance if she angered Maurits.
"Um," Sophie hesitated, trying to maintain a composed demeanor. "I don't know," she finally managed to say, her voice tinged with a carefully crafted lie.
"Oh." Maeve exhaled softly, nodding in response to Sophie's words. The gentle encouragement from her newfound friend offered reassurance and eased the disappointment that lingered briefly in her eyes. With a renewed sense of curiosity, Maeve remained open to the surprises that awaited her within the pages of Little Women.
"Read other one, darling," Maurits suggested, handing her another book. This time, it was The Hobbit—a story Maeve hadn't delved into for years. Her eyes lit up with excitement as she eagerly released her grip on Little Women, snatching the beloved copy of The Hobbit instead. It was a cherished tale, one that had captured her imagination countless times before.
Clutching the book tightly, Maeve felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her. The weight of the book in her hands brought back memories of cozy nights spent nestled in her favorite reading spot, lost in the magical world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The book was read many times by other you notice it from the worn cover, filled with creases and dog-eared pages.
With a renewed spark in her eyes, Maeve cracked open the book, her fingertips gliding across the familiar words.
As Maeve nestled her head onto Sophie's shoulder, Sophie reciprocated the gesture, resting her head gently upon Maeve's. The warmth of their connection transcended words, forging a silent bond of trust and comfort amidst the uncertainties that surrounded them.
Curiosity sparked within Sophie as she sought to engage Maeve in conversation about the new book she held. Breaking the silence, she inquired, "What is this one about?"
Maeve's smile remained unwavering, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "It's about hobbits and a ring," she answered, her voice filled with wonder and anticipation.
Intrigued by Maeve's response, Dylan chimed in, directed at the young girl. "Have you read it before?"
Maeve momentarily tore her gaze away from the pages, fixing Dylan with an annoyed look. Her annoyance, however, quickly dissipated as she recognized his genuine curiosity. With a sigh, she responded, her tone laced with determination, "Yes, I have."
Before Dylan could utter another word, Maeve swiftly interrupted him, her words tinged with a touch of impatience. "Close your mouth!" she warned, her focus resolutely fixed on the captivating tale before her. "I want to read. You can ask me questions when I finish. Give me two hours," she asserted, her voice holding a mix of eagerness and determination.
Maurits's laughter reverberated through the truck, filling the air with a contagious joviality. He couldn't help but find amusement in Maeve's feisty response to Dylan's questions. His grin remained broad, showcasing his delight in his girl's spirited nature.
Dylan, however, scowled in response to Maurits's amusement, sitting up straighter as he crossed his arms defiantly. Feeling a need to defend himself, he retorted, "You've got yourself a mean girl there."
Maurits's smile didn't waver, his eyes gleaming mischievously. With a hint of playful warning in his voice, he replied, "Say that again, and you'll have a black eye."
Derek, attempting to stifle his laughter at the escalating banter, received a harsh hit from Dylan, a not-so-subtle reminder of their own rough and tumble camaraderie. The unexpected blow caused Derek's laughter to burst forth, blending with the light-hearted atmosphere that filled the truck.