What if?

Chapter 6

The sun rose over Safe Haven, casting a golden hue over the sprawling settlement. Nestled within the protective walls, the community buzzed with activity. The air was filled with the sound of hope and rebuilding.

Thomas stood at the edge of the settlement, gazing out at the horizon. He couldn't shake the lingering sense of loss. Newt and Teresa's absence weighed heavily on his heart. They had been through so much together, and now, with their apparent deaths, a void had been left that nothing seemed to fill.

"Thomas," a voice called, snapping him out of his thoughts. It was Minho, his closest friend and fellow survivor. "You alright?"

Thomas sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I'm good, I guess."

"You really have to stop thinking about them 24/7. I know you miss them like hell, we all do. But this is starting to be unhealthy for you. I'm worried about you, you know." Minho said with worry in his eyes.

Thomas sighed, "Yeah I know. But it's hard, I really liked them you know."

Minho smirked at this sentence and muttered, "Especially Newt, huh?

Thomas having heard very well but acting as if he didn't replied "What was that?" slowly looking away and blushing.

"Nothing man, anyway let's go back to the others." Minho said, leading Thomas back.

Thomas and Minho walked back towards the heart of Safe Haven, the settlement coming alive with the energy of the new day. People bustled about, tending to their chores, sharing meals, and engaging in conversation. It was a community built on hope and resilience, but for Thomas, the shadow of his lost friends lingered.

As they approached the central area, they saw Brenda and Jorge working together, repairing some equipment. Brenda looked up and waved, her expression brightening when she saw Thomas.

"Hey, Thomas! Minho!" Brenda called out. "We've got some fresh fruit if you're hungry."

Thomas managed a smile. "Thanks, Brenda. Maybe later."

Minho nudged him. "You should eat something. It'll help."

Thomas nodded, knowing Minho was right. They joined Brenda and Jorge, who were sitting under a makeshift canopy that provided shade from the rising sun. A small table was set with various fruits and bread, a modest but welcome feast.

"So," Jorge began, leaning back in his chair, "any word on the new supply route?"

Minho shook his head. "Not yet. We're still waiting for the scouts to report back."

Brenda handed Thomas a piece of fruit. "Here, you need this."

Thomas accepted it gratefully, taking a bite and savoring the sweetness. The simple act of eating helped ground him, reminding him of the importance of staying strong for the community.

"Thomas," Brenda said softly, "we all miss them. Newt and Teresa were... they were family. But we have to keep moving forward, for their sake as much as ours."

Thomas looked down, his heart heavy. "I know. It's just... it feels like a part of me is missing."

Jorge leaned forward, his eyes serious. "That's because they were a part of you. But you're not alone. We're all here for you."

The words offered some comfort, and Thomas felt a renewed sense of determination. They were right. Thomas knew dwelling on the past wouldn't bring Newt and Teresa back. They had fought too hard and sacrificed too much to let despair consume them now. As he finished the fruit, Thomas felt a surge of gratitude for the friends who surrounded him, their unwavering support a beacon in the darkness.

After breakfast, Thomas and Minho joined Jorge in checking the perimeter defenses. They inspected the outer walls, ensuring that every section was secure and reinforced against potential threats. The morning sun beat down on them, but they worked diligently, their minds focused on the task at hand.

As they walked along the wall, Thomas couldn't help but marvel at how far they had come. Safe Haven had grown from a desperate refuge into a thriving community. People had found solace here, forging new lives amidst the remnants of the old world. It was a testament to their resilience and determination.

By midday, the heat became unbearable, prompting them to take a break in the shade of a large tree near the northern gate. They sat in silence for a moment, catching their breath and sipping water from their canteens.

"You know," Minho said suddenly, breaking the quiet, "we should organize a hunting party soon. Our food supplies are holding up, but fresh meat would be a welcome change."

Jorge nodded in agreement. "I'll talk to some of the hunters. We'll plan a trip for tomorrow morning."

Thomas smiled faintly, grateful for the distraction of practical matters. "Sounds like a plan. We could use a good hunt."

They spent the rest of the afternoon tending to various tasks around Safe Haven. Thomas helped repair a section of the water pipeline, ensuring that everyone had access to clean water. Minho coordinated with the scouts, reviewing maps and discussing potential routes for future expeditions.

As evening approached, Thomas found himself at the edge of the settlement once more, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The sky turned shades of pink and orange, a serene backdrop to the bustling activity within Safe Haven. Children played near the central square, their laughter mingling with the sounds of adults preparing dinner.

Brenda approached him quietly, her presence a comfort. "How are you holding up, Thomas?"

He sighed softly. "Better, I think. Keeping busy helps."

She nodded understandingly. "It always does. Just remember, we're all here for you."

Thomas smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Brenda. I appreciate that."

As darkness settled over Safe Haven, the community gathered for their evening meal. They sat together under the stars, sharing stories and laughter, finding solace in each other's company. For a brief moment, Thomas allowed himself to set aside the weight of loss and embrace the warmth of belonging.

As he looked around at the faces of his fellow survivors, Thomas felt a glimmer of hope. Safe Haven wasn't just a place of refuge; it was a home filled with courage, resilience, and the promise of a future worth fighting for. And as long as they stood together, he knew they could face whatever challenges lay ahead, honoring the memory of those they had lost and building a new legacy of survival and hope.

Here we go, another chapter done :) Hope you enjoyed!

See you on the next chapter!

L'🥀