In a world where death lurks around every corner, Star and Carl find themselves bound by survival and a shared hope. Amid constant threats from both the dead and the living, an unexpected connection begins to grow between them. When everything seems...
I woke up to Mom’s voice calling me; another day was starting at camp. We’d all gotten used to living in tents and gathering around the fire at night. It’s been 45 days without a run-in with walkers or any kind of threat. I think we’ve actually found a safe spot here.
I got up and went to take a shower in Dale’s trailer. He’s a sweet old guy who always looks out for everyone and loves telling stories from his younger days to keep us entertained.
I didn’t stay in the shower long. The water’s not warm, but at least we have a shower; otherwise, we’d be bathing in the lake, and that’s not exactly fun.
I came out of the trailer and walked over to my mom, who was hanging up clothes on a makeshift line that Dale had set up.
“Need help, Mom?” I asked, walking over as she turned to look at me.
“Thanks, honey, but I’ve got it,” she said, giving me a small smile. “Carl was looking for you; go hang out with him.” She nodded, and I headed toward his tent, where he’d probably be waiting.
“Hey, Carl, you were looking for me?” I said, making him turn to face me.
“Star! Finally!” He grinned, a little sarcasm in his voice. “Come on, look what Shane found on his last run.” He pulled me into his tent.
He went in and grabbed something but kept it hidden behind his back when he came back out.
“Close your eyes and hold out your hands,” he said, smiling just a bit.
“Oh, so mysterious.” I rolled my eyes but did as he asked.
“Knew you’d like it.” He said, placing the object in my hands.
When I opened my eyes, I was looking at a silver necklace with a star-shaped charm.
“It’s beautiful! Where’d he find it?” I asked, looking from the necklace up at Carl.
“Shane said it was near the lake; someone probably dropped it. But now it’s yours.” He smiled, and I looked back down at the necklace.
“Can you help me put it on?” I asked, and he nodded, moving behind me to fasten it.
“Knew you’d like it,” he said, stepping back around to face me.
“Thank you… I love it.” I smiled a little, looking into his eyes.
Then I noticed Sophia walking over with some toys in her hand.
