Part 3/12:
Returning inside, Monte quickly shifts from dealing with technical breakdowns to nurturing Willow. Cooking baby food from their limited garden supply becomes an act of both necessity and affection. Even as he tends to her needs, persistent shadows loom — the sudden blackout of power brings a moment of panic, reminding him of the precariousness of their lives.
Reflecting on Regret and Reality
As the hours pass, Monte’s thoughts drift into darker territories. He ponders his past: memories of his father, the lost wrench symbolizing fragility, and the realization that Willow’s existence is both a miracle and a disruption of the natural order. It’s evident that the remnants of his former life weigh heavily on him.