The cliffs were quiet in the mornings.
Mist rolled in from the sea, soft and cool, wrapping the jagged edges of the earth in a white hush.
Far below, waves crashed against the rocks in a rhythm Selene had grown to know — not as noise, but as breath.
The earth inhaled and exhaled with the ocean. And she stood still at the edge, letting that calm wash through her.
The wind tangled her hair, lifting it gently. She didn't move to fix it. There was no need anymore. No eyes watching. No expectations to meet.
Behind her, the wooden door creaked open.
'This feels so good. The world is so quiet and peaceful. Have I ever felt like this before the apocalypse? I wish this feeling would last forever.'
Selene opened her eyes as she took in the calmness before her.
Ethan stepped out, cup of tea in hand.
His shirt hung loose over his shoulder, his hair still messy from sleep. He blinked against the light, glanced around until he saw her standing by the cliff.
"You're up early."
