Chapter 63: The World Was Intense
Zara adjusted the straps of the carrier that held Leo snug against her chest, his small hands clutching at the fabric of her jacket. Her legs ached from the hours of walking, but she kept moving.
"We’re close," she said aloud, her voice steady. She wasn’t sure if she was reassuring herself or Leo.
Ahead, the highway disappeared into the haze. No sign of City H. No sign of anything except desolation and decay. Was that the Mist or was it caused by the weather? She shouldn’t tell.
Zara’s stomach churned with unease, but she forced herself to keep her pace even.
If I panic, he’ll panic.
She glanced down at Leo, his head resting on her chest. His curls, sticky with sweat and grime, brushed against her chin.
She couldn’t let him see her doubt.
Inwardly, her thoughts raced. What if I’ve miscalculated? What if this wasnt the right path to City H? What if we’re walking to nowhere? The idea gnawed at her, but she buried it deep. She couldn’t spiral right now.
"Mommy tired?" Leo’s small voice broke through her thoughts, and she looked down to see him peering up at her, wide-eyed.
"No baby. I’m strong, remember?" She managed a smile, shifting his weight in the carrier. Her injury from her previous fight was still hurting but she had been able to treat it.
He nodded, content for now, and Zara scanned the sides of the road for shelter. A cluster of abandoned cars caught her eye, their faded paint jobs and shattered windows would give them enough shade and privacy for a while.