The Beginning of the End

2) The News

After I went to turn off my alarm clock, I sat on my bed.

EERRRRR EERRRRR

What is that?
I hear this annoying 'ering' sound coming from downstairs.

"LAUREN LAUREN!"

What does Nate want now?
He's probably the one causing that irritating noise.

"WHAT!?" I yell down the stairs.

"COME DOWN I DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS MEANS!!"
Oh Nate. What would he do without me?

When I get down, I see Nate near the TV. That boy, didn't anyone ever tell him to not be so close to the TV?

"What?"
Im so tired of him bothering me.

"W-what are they talking ab-bout?"
My brother points at the TV.
It's the news.

This is a message from the U.S. Government: if you are near any of these states listed, please stay indoors at all times, do not make contact with anyone outside your house. A virus has leaked from the Californian Department of Medicine, the CDM, it is a very dangerous virus that affects your brain. Be very cautious, but please remain calm. The CDC is doing everything in its power to find a cure. If you are not in these areas please still take precautions for this virus may be air born. It may spread.
Also, please have possession of a battery powered radio for if the power goes out and we must contact you for any information.
We hope everything goes better from here.
Thank you,
We approve this message.

Everything is quiet. There's not a single sound coming from anyone or anything.

I look down at Nate.

He looks as if he's waiting for me to solve everything, tell him what to do, and what's happening.
I don't have a clue.

"Umm, I'm not exactly sure about that, I'll ask mom when she gets home," Nate still looks confused, "but I'm sure there's nothing to be worried about, I mean its the news, they'll probably solve it and this will be over with by tomorrow"

In reality, I was also clueless and confused.
I just really want Mom to come back. She's been gone for quite a while.
I don't know what to do.

* * *
It's 5pm and Mom's still not home.

"Nate, time for dinner! Mom left us pizza in the fridge! I hope you don't mind cold pizza!"

No response.

Nate's probably watching his show.
It's not my problem if he doesn't eat. Its his responsibility.
Its about time this boy learns some of that.

Eating the left over pizza from the fridge, I hear a car door slam.

MOM.

I'm assuming Nate heard that too because he's racing to the door as well.
I open the door.

"Mom! Your home!"
I expect my mom to come in with open arms and a huge smile telling me about her day, but her face tells me something's wrong.

She comes in and closes the door behind her without saying a word.

I see her going to the kitchen and searching throughly for something, I'm guessing important.

"Mom, what's wrong? Why were you out so late?"
Mom just walks right past me, like she hadn't heard me.

"Why won't you answer me?"
I could tell she was anxious, but I didn't bring it up.

"Mom! Your scaring me, and Nate!"
Mom turns around, her face is pale.

"Listen, I don't have time to explain, but quickly go upstairs and pack a few pairs of clothes, toothbrush, and something of your choice. We don't have much time. I already packed supplies in the car." Mom says.

Nate runs upstairs.
What? Hold on, I need details Mom.

"Wait, what's going on?" I grab her arm. "I promise, I'll tell you everything. Just do as your told, and help your brother pack.
I love you."

Frightened, I do as I'm told and don't ask questions.