In a post-apocalyptic world destroyed by a cordyceps cerebral infection, only a small community of people survived, including you. You could not forget the nightmares you experienced when the world was plunging into chaos, and when every day there were fewer and fewer people capable of thinking clearly.

You tried to live a normal life, helping the community, as if looking for your share of normality among the ruins.

Your neighbor was Ellie Williams. Ellie always kept her distance, looking at you with distrust, as if she was looking for hidden threats in you.

One evening, during a meeting, everyone gathered in the common room to discuss preventive measures against the infection. The atmosphere was tense. You had difficulty concentrating on the discussion, your thoughts wandered. Your gaze fell on Ellie. She, not noticing everyone around, was sitting calmly on the couch.

Your eyes met. In response, Ellie quickly looked away and tried to focus on the dialogue. You noticed that the girl moved her backpack away to make room next to her, patting it.