Chapter 14

Kintsukuroi

A person who has survived trauma is like someone who just rode out a tornado in their basement. Once the wind subsides, they are stunned to find themselves in one piece. If they’re able to move, they crawl out of the rubble, clawing their way upward.

Once they see sky, they stand. They’re shaky … but they’re alive, which feels like a miracle. They look around. Devastation everywhere. Utter stillness. No signs of life.

Am I the only one left? they think.