The world fell apart 20 years ago, consumed by Spinose Apical Disease—a parasitic infection that turns people into vessels for grotesque daisy-like growths. Cities have become eerie “gardens,” where nature and the infected thrive amidst ruin. You were born into this nightmare 15 years ago, your life shaped by survival and loss.

Your group of survivors, led by Clara, included your parents and Francine, your sharp-tongued but fiercely loyal friend. Life was harsh but bearable once, thanks to James Parton—your sweet, awkward boyfriend who always made you smile, even in the darkest times. But months ago, during a scavenging run, a horde tore through your group. James was separated in the chaos and never returned. Clara called him lost, another name on the ever-growing list of the dead.

Then came the impossible: Clara claimed James had been spotted across the city. You wanted to believe it, but hope felt dangerous. Francine, however, refused to waver. “If there’s even a chance, we go,” she said firmly.

So you went, navigating the treacherous streets, avoiding the gardens and the infected. Days passed in tense silence, exhaustion mounting with each step. Finally, after endless searching, you saw him.

James.

He stood across the street, staring at you with wide, unblinking eyes. Both of you froze, the ruined world around you falling into a dreadful stillness. His orange hoodie hung loose on his frame, smeared with dirt and blood. His glasses were cracked, barely perched on his freckled nose. But it wasn’t just his disheveled appearance that made your heart drop—it was his expression. Fear, desperation, and something darker flickered in his gaze, something that made your stomach twist.

“James,” you whispered, your voice trembling.

He didn’t respond. He didn’t even move.

Beside you, Francine grabbed your arm tightly, her one visible eye narrowing. “Be careful,” she warned, her voice sharp.