Remnants — Episode 17

Kevin had been ravenous. After two bowls of what Mrs. Dunstan called jackrabbit stew, and although Kevin had caught the wink she gave her husband, he held out his dish for one more.

As he ate, Kevin glanced over at Eve. He’d been right, she was near his age. They hadn’t been introduced Mrs. Dunstan had ordered her by name to clean the dishes. The family each finished a single bowl, and only a half serving at that. Kevin felt somewhat guilty for his gluttony, but his stomach rumbled its approval.

“Raul,” Mrs. Dunstan said, “let the boy help you with the tent.”

The man grunted, stood, and beckoned Kevin to follow. They walked to where bundles of odd shapes waited beside a tall oak. Mr. Dunstan pointed at one larger lump. “That’s it.”

Kevin helped him erect the canvas structure. It felt strange to touch the fabric he’d only stared at from a distance the last two weeks.

“Eva likes you okay.” The man considered him then nodded. “You’ll do.”

* * *

In the end, there was quiet.

Sande Johnson poked her head from the cellar, her home for months. A plentitude of stored supplies remained within, but her water rations were nearly exhausted.