Chapter Thirteen

Smoke darkened the skies like false clouds. Thunder rumbled in the distance, but the clouds hoarded any moisture deep within their volume. Ash and soot filled the air, sucking what little moisture was left from the parched land, giving further fuel to the flames.

***

I woke up startled and the room unfamiliar. I panicked for a moment before realizing I had fallen asleep on Andrew's couch. A thin gray light was leaking into the room announcing dawn. Andrew was snoring gently, asleep on the recliner next to me. the TV flickered with an infomercial.

"Morning, Holly. You want some coffee?" Audrey whispered, peeking her head out from inside the kitchen. I nodded and sat up slowly. My neck hurt from sleeping in a weird position on the couch. I rubbed it as I walked to the kitchen, following the smell of toast and coffee.

"Creamer is in the fridge. Want some eggs?" Audrey asked as she handed me a hot mug. I took a big sip, the bitter liquid filling my mouth. I nodded again, and Audrey cracke