"Now they'll all know we're back."
"That's okay."
Bai Li slowed near the final intersection.
A group of survivors was gathered there.
Someone had blocked one lane with a metal gate.
Bai Li stopped.
A man approached.
"Sorry. We're just moving supplies across. Give us one minute."
Bai Li nodded.
"Take your time."
The man looked at the motorcycle.
Then at Bai Li.
"You went out far today, didn't you?"
"Yes."
"Everything okay?"
Bai Li nodded.
"We're fine."
He smiled.
"Good."
The gate was moved aside.
He stepped back.
"Welcome home."
Bai Li paused.
The words were simple.
Still, they felt different coming from someone standing beside the road.
She nodded.
"Thanks."
The motorcycle moved forward.
Yan Cijin looked back at the man.
"That was nice."
"Yes."
They entered the final street.
There were only a few more buildings before the apartment complex.
The morning light had become warm.
The road was clear.
