Chương 45: 45 Flickers of the Past

Zoe moved her shelves and game models into her mom's section of the apartment.

Dusty boxes filled with nostalgia were piled high, remnants of a time when the game meant everything.

Snacks trotted around, curious as ever, nosing through the clutter and knocking over a few models.

Zoe paused to pick them up, letting out a small sigh.

She glanced at an old figurine, a reminder of the countless hours spent gaming.

A lot had changed since then.

She had changed.

A bittersweet feeling welled up inside her, as she realized those days held a kind of simplicity she could never return to.

Still, she smiled, setting the figurine back in its place, giving Snacks a playful nudge.

After everything was set up, she made her way back to her room, settling into her chair.

The thought of unwinding with her favorite game seemed like a good idea.

She logged in, queuing up a familiar dungeon run.

SUY NGHĨ CỦA NGƯỜI SÁNG TẠO
Zanden

This chapter, titled "Flickers of the Past," was all about Zoe's struggle between comfort and change. It highlights how she is gradually letting go of her past habits and the comforting simplicity of her old routines. Quinby Park represents that turning point—a quiet place where her restlessness meets something new and unpredictable.

I loved focusing on Zoe's transition here. She's feeling the tug of something bigger, a desire for the real thrill of shard diving, and that made this chapter really enjoyable to write. Plus, Snacks adding his little nudges and chirps kept the warmth alive, even as Zoe herself was battling her own frustrations.

Let me know what you all think—do you relate to that feeling of outgrowing something that used to mean the world to you? I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts!