A changing world

Evangeline

"You seem to be getting quite comfortable with that gun," I teased Liana, watching as she held a semi-automatic rifle like a makeshift bat. It was a stark reminder of how our concept of normal life had become increasingly twisted with each passing day. "You're also improving your skills with it," I added, genuinely impressed.

Liana chuckled, a hint of nervousness in her smile. "I know, but it does make a lot of noise. I'm afraid those things will swarm us because of it," she remarked, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "At least, that's what they do in the movies."

"Don't worry," I reassured her, "nothing will get us once we're in the car. But we do need some more comfortable clothes and maybe shoes. I don't think you'll be comfortable running for your life in that outfit," I said, giving her denim shorts and tank top a once-over. With her long, slender legs and athletic physique, she almost looked like a model for the latest summer campaign. Cute.

"Yeah, this is pretty... not ideal. Can i go through your brother's stuff and see if any of them fit me?", she looking at her outfit.

"Sure, go for it", I gave her the greeenlight as i pull out the pistol tucked into my waistband and started target practice. "I'm sure you'll find something more comfy", I don't look at her and focus on the tincan a little over fifty yards from me, then... Bang.

Bulls eyes.

"You're pretty good at this" Liana complements and i just give a confident smile.

"I am a genius afterall

Liana ventured upstairs to Alex's room to search for more suitable clothing. While she rummaged through the closet, I continued my target practice. The rhythmic sound of gunshots echoed through the house, a stark reminder of the new reality we faced.

As I lined up my next shot, Oliver approached, holding a spare rifle. "Mind if I join you?" he asked.

I lowered my pistol and nodded, handing him a pair of earmuffs to protect his hearing. "Of course. It's good to practice. You might need these skills out there."

He nodded, taking the earmuffs and adjusting them. I watched as he carefully aimed and fired, hitting the target with impressive accuracy. It seemed that his fascination with firearms had translated into a genuine skill.

"You're pretty good at this," I remarked, mirroring Liana's earlier compliment.

Oliver smiled modestly. "Well, I've read a lot about guns. It's nice to know that knowledge can actually be useful."

We continued practicing together, the repetitive act of shooting providing a strange sense of catharsis amidst the chaos. As we honed our skills, I couldn't help but appreciate the camaraderie we were building as a group. In these trying times, we were all discovering hidden strengths and forming unexpected bonds.

When Liana returned downstairs, she had changed into more practical attire, complete with a pair of sneakers. "Much better," she said with a grin.

I nodded in approval. "You look ready for action. Now, let's hope we won't need to use those guns and clothes for much longer."