Mae Webster

Apocalyptic Prints In The Sand

"Lilly, are you ready yet!?" Derrick shouted from outside the military-style tent that I called home for the last 15 years. This tent wasn't a home of luxury by any means, in fact, some people would consider it cramped. But I love it none-the-less. It's the only home I've known post-apocalypse, until now. "Almost Der, packing the last of what I can carry now!" I shouted out to Derrick, hoping he heard me past all the commotion ensuing outside where he stood. Everyone in our small Zone 3 were rushing to pack any items of theirs they could. A massive radiation cloud was heading this way and we had to get going asap. As I was shoving the rest of my belongings into my old beat up book-bag, I noticed my heart-shaped locket was still on the small table beside my cot. There was no way I could forget my locket. It had been in my family for generations. I picked the locket up and clasped it around my neck and I couldn't help but remember my 19th birthday. The day my mother ensured that it was safely in my care. Normally, the women in my family would receive it on their wedding day as a gift. However, Mom had become extremely ill and hadn't much time left. Not long after I was gifted with our heart-shaped family locket, she passed away peacefully. My heart still clenches at the memories of her. I miss her dearly but I'm grateful she wasn't here when all hell broke loose and the world was thrust into chaos.