68

A couple steps out of the house, their soft laughter rising in the quiet as their kid bounces ahead of them, kicking the snow with his feet. The boy’s giggles cut through the air as the parents half laugh and half scold him. The scene feels out of place, like something from a different world. A world where everything is simple. Dahlia’s world. That must’ve been her life before everything ended. I watch her as she watches them, her eyes watery, her hands shaking around a bag of chips. This time, I don’t hesitate as I take her hand in mind. She shudders, and I think I feel her stiffen before she goes still. “Does it make you sad?” I ask. “On the contrary. I’m relieved that the house is well-loved and kept. Mom and Dad would be so happy if they saw this.” She grins. “Hey, Kane?” “Hmm?” “Let’s go by the ocean.” “When it’s this freezing?” “It’s the best! I know people say coastal towns are depressing in the winter, but it’s like a fairy tale. Believe me.” “I have my doubts.” She just laughs