Kaitlyn Burnett

Vera

The Collector peels open her lids as the beginnings of the morning light creep through the window slats. She drags a dirty hand down her face, stretching her legs and climbing out of her cot. Sand batters the sides of the railcar that she calls home, casting a smoky shade over the rising sun. She pulls on her worn leathers and too small boots, throwing a rifle over her shoulder before stepping out into the wastes.