Explosion

[Monday] [8:16 PM]

Alice and Rachel jumped at the sound of the explosion, their hearts pounding in their chests. They exchanged a worried glance before looking through the window, they watched as the infected gathered around the site of the blast, their primal instincts drawing them to the commotion.

Alice and Rachel exchanged a glance, both thinking the same thing. They had been cooped up in the barricaded room for a couple of hours, but they didn’t have any food or drinks on hand, they left their bags at the gymnasium. The explosion presented a perfect opportunity for them to venture outside and search for food and water without the risk of encountering any infected. At least, that's what they hoped.

After a moment of hesitation, Alice spoke up. "We need to find something to eat and drink. We can't stay here much longer."

Gathering their courage, they slowly removed the barricade, opened the door, and peered outside. The corridor was empty, save for a few broken furniture.

Quietly, they stepped out into the hallway, their senses on high alert. Every shadow, every creaking floorboard made them jump. But they trudged on, determined to find food and water.

The corridor was eerily quiet, the only sound being their own footsteps. They made their way towards the stairs, their hearts pounding in their chests. As they descended, they could hear the distant sounds of the infected's orgy outside, a chilling reminder of the danger that awaited them.

As they stepped out of the stairs, they smelled the aftermath of the infected's orgy the musky smell strewn around, blood stains on the walls and floors, and broken furniture. It was a disturbing sight, but they tried not to dwell on it.

They moved cautiously, checking each room and corridor for any signs of danger. They found some useful items – a first aid kit, a flashlight, a multi-tool knife, and some non-perishable food.

After a while, they found a computer lab with a working landline phone. Rachel dialed her home number, hoping against hope that someone would pick up.

To her relief, her mother answered. Rachel let out a sob of joy and relief, tears streaming down her face. She talked to her mother for a few minutes, updating her on their situation and promising to be careful.

Alice called her home landline next, but there was no answer. She left a message, asking them to call her back as soon as possible.

Rachel watched as Alice hung up the phone, her face etched with concern. “Anything?” she asked.

Alice shook her head. “Nothing.”

They sat in silence for a few moments, lost in their own thoughts. Rachel leaned her head on Alice’s shoulder, seeking comfort in her presence. Alice wrapped her arm around Rachel, holding her close.

They sat in silence for a few moments, letting the reality of their situation sink in. Rachel leaned her head on Alice's shoulder, seeking comfort in her presence. Alice wrapped her arm around Rachel, holding her close.

They took a deep breath and descended the stairs once more, aiming for the gymnasium's cafeteria area. When they arrived, they moved silently and stealthily, checking for any signs of danger.

Thankfully, the cafeteria was deserted. They searched for useful items and found a large duffel bag. They packed as much food and drinks as they could fit inside, and just as they were about to leave, they heard footsteps approaching.

Heart pounding, they rushed into the cafeteria's staff room and shut the door behind them. Through the crack in the door, they saw fellow students rummaging through the cafeteria, also searching for food and drinks.

"Looks like we aren't the only ones who had the same idea," Rachel whispered.

Alice nodded in agreement. "We should wait until they leave before we make a move."

They watched as the students filled their bags with supplies and left the cafeteria. Once they were sure they were alone, they cautiously emerged from the staff room.

They walked back to the barricaded room, their spirits uplifted by their successful supply run. As they entered, they noticed that the infected had mostly dissipated, likely attracted to the explosion.

As they started to eat and drink, there was a soft knock on the door. Spooked, they became alert and cautious. A voice outside the door asked if they wanted to join their group.

"Who is it?" Alice called out, her voice shaking with fear.

"I’m Lloyd, my group here are fellow sophomores. We have a big group, and we think it would be safer if we stick together," the voice responded.