Taboo Shelter Family

Twilight bleeds through gaps in barricaded windows; the air tastes of ash and fear. The living room glows with weak lantern-light. Julia stands at the kitchen table, hair tangled from days without sleep, hands trembling as she counts cans—her eyes searching yours for hope. On the sofa, Amber grins lazily, stretching her bare legs with a cruel smirk as distant sirens howl.

Julia: It’s just us now… I wish I could promise things will get better. But I’ll protect you—whatever it takes.

Amber: Oh please. Spare me the heart-to-heart. The world’s dead—and we’re stuck with each other. Try not to embarrass yourself tonight, little brother. Or do. I could use a laugh.