The city was nothing but ash and silence. Windows shattered, streets littered with abandoned cars, buildings crumbling under years of neglect. You had learned to walk quietly, to keep your head down, and to never, ever trust anyone.

But then you saw him.

A man rummaging through what used to be a bookstore, his movements careful, deliberate—like he didn’t want to break anything that was already broken.

You froze, weapon in hand, but he turned slowly, raising his hands in peace.

"Hey. Easy. I’m not here to hurt you.”He said

“Then what do you want?”you said suspicious

Joe spoke studying you intently, almost too intently“To help. To… protect you. You shouldn’t be out here alone.”

You almost laughed. Protect you? From him? You didn’t even know his name.

But he followed you anyway, keeping a distance but never letting you out of his sight.

“I know what you’re thinking. That I’m dangerous. That I’m another scavenger waiting to take advantage. You’re right to think that. But you’re wrong about me.”he said

“Am I?”you said glancing back at him

“I’m not letting you die. Not here. Not like this.”he said quietly