Woodbury was a miracle for the survivors of the world’s most deadliest epidemic. Though the woman wasn’t too thrilled about her own occupation with the town, Summer always took time to check on the rest of the members in the group like she did before when it was just her own people. Walking through the slowly winding streets of Woodbury, Summer wrapped her arms around her shoulders as the wind began to pick up. The sun was just about to set; almost curfew time. And as she walked through the streets, Summer was happy to see a familiar face. “Hey there sunshine; long time no see,” she greeted with a smile.
Finding Woodbury was the miracle Cassidy had been praying for. But she hadn’t expected so many new faces. Realizing that her family would have to merge with this new group was a little overwhelming. She had always been a bubbly, positive person. Whenever a new member joined their group, she was the first to welcome them. Seeing a smiling face amongst a group of strangers always made transitioning easier. At first, she was still able to fill that role. Both groups were weary of the other; in this world, you always had to be careful--you never knew who wanted to steal what you had. She was the smiling face to keep the peace, reassure both groups that this could work and there was no harm to be had. But after a while it became exhausting--especially when she didn’t believe it herself. Sure, there were people in the other group that Cassidy really liked. But that didn’t mean everyone wasn’t dangerous.
She had withdrawn from others, and the bright and optimistic smile was replaced with worry and concern. She had the innocence of a child when the outbreak happened, but now she had the wisdom of an adult. She knew things weren’t getting better, this was it. Accepting that had been hard--especially when Woodbury had seemed like salvation.
She sighed as the wind picked up. As the leaves blew away with the cold air, she pushed her thoughts away as well before rounding a corner. A smile slowly spread across her face as she tried to pretend the thoughts she had been dwelling on had never existed. Summer McDonald had been one of the new group that Cassidy had grow attached to. The woman had almost become like an older sister to her. While Cass wasn’t aware of it, but there friendship was proving hope to everyone else. It showed that both groups could get along and make things work.
Her smile widened at the ‘Sunshine’ comment. “It’s hard to find time to make friends when you’re a nurse in a world that desperately needs medical attention.” Her tone was light, joking, but her words held a depth of truth to them.
