A Cup Of Coffee ( R )

After parking his new scooter by the building, Ryo climbed the familiar stairs, breathing steadily even though his muscles were sore from carrying a heavy load on his shoulder. The gallon of gasoline he had with him felt like a small reward for his efforts.

As he opened the heavy door to his rooftop escape, he could hear the distant sounds of the undead below. He set the gasoline down with a loud thud, breaking the quiet. This fuel was precious—it would give him time and freedom in this crumbling world.

Letting out a tired breath, he took off his sweaty hoodie. The cool air felt good against his skin. Today had been really tiring, but it was worth it.

Not bothering to change, he sank into his old couch, letting the cushions absorb him. The pressure of survival weighed heavily on him, but for now—just for a moment—

Even as Ryo settled into the comfort of his surroundings, his mind wouldn't let him relax. Thoughts raced through his head—the search for the scooter, the trip to the gas station, the heavy burden of survival. He had gained another tool to help him in this broken world, but every little victory reminded him that the fight wasn't over. It never would be.

He sighed.

Pushing off the couch, Ryo slowly shuffled into the small kitchenette. The cupboards were still full, his supplies neatly arranged from previous scavenging trips. He touched the familiar coffee canister, and a satisfied hum escaped him.

In no time, the rich smell of coffee filled the air, cutting through the usual stale scent of dust and decay in his refuge. He poured himself a steaming mug, watching the steam rise like ghostly wisps.

He brought the cup to his lips and took a slow, careful sip. It was bitter and strong—exactly what he needed. The warmth spread through him, easing some of the exhaustion that clung to him.

As Ryo enjoyed the warmth of the coffee flowing through him, he reached for his backpack and felt the new pack of cigarettes. They were a small luxury in a world without comfort.

With ease, he pulled one out and placed it between his lips, the familiar scent of tobacco surrounding him. He flicked his lighter, creating a small, flickering flame, and brought it close to the cigarette, inhaling deeply as the tip glowed.

The first drag was pure bliss. The rich taste filled his lungs, calming him after a long day. He exhaled slowly, watching the soft smoke curl up toward the ceiling, fading into the dim light.

Leaning back against the couch, he let himself sink into the worn cushions as his muscles finally relaxed.

For a brief moment, the outside world faded away, lost in the smoke curling lazily from Ryo's lips. The distant groans of the undead and the howling wind through broken buildings faded into the background. In this quiet moment, it was just him, his thoughts, and the steady sound of his own breathing.

It was a rare moment of peace—a small luxury in a world where survival was the only thing that mattered.

But even as he enjoyed the bitter taste of the cigarette and the lingering warmth of coffee, something nagged at the back of his mind. The weight of uncertainty lurked just beyond the horizon, casting a shadow over his every waking moment. Danger was out there, watching and waiting.

Ryo took another slow drag, gazing at the distant city skyline beyond the rooftop.

With a heavy sigh, he stubbed out the cigarette, watching the last glow fade into the darkness. That moment of peace was gone.

When he got up from the couch, the reality of his situation felt heavy, like a burden he had to bear. There was no time to be complacent. No room for doubt.

Every choice was important now. Every action had consequences. In this world, where survival was never guaranteed, one wrong move could lead to death.

Ryo stepped toward the edge of the rooftop and looked out over the city below. The sky was a mix of deep violet and burning orange, the last light of day disappearing beneath the horizon. It was a deceptively calm scene, hiding the nightmare that thrived in the dark.

He tightened his grip on the railing, his jaw set in determination.

"Stay vigilant. Stay ahead."

With renewed determination, Ryo focused on the days ahead. There was no room for weakness or hesitation.

In this harsh world, only those who adapted would survive. He couldn't afford to be complacent—not now, not ever.

He moved with purpose, securing his supplies, double-checking his weapons, and mentally reviewing every possible scenario. Food. Fuel. Shelter. Defense. The struggle for survival was unending, but he wouldn't let himself be caught off guard.

As he looked out at the crumbling skyline, the city stretching endlessly beneath the fading light, a fierce resolve ignited in his chest. He was ready.

With his wits, weapons, and strong determination, he was prepared to carve a path through the darkness. No matter what lay ahead or how great the challenges, he was determined to succeed.

( End Of Chapter )