HIDEOUT

11. Helplessness

Afternoon, 1p.m.

After waiting for two long hours, the silence outside the bakery was deafening. The three friends cautiously stepped out, scanning their surroundings for any signs of the undead. With their stomachs grumbling and throats parched, they desperately searched for some sustenance.

After what felt like an eternity, they stumbled upon a small bakery. A flicker of hope lit up in their eyes as they carefully stepped inside, scanning the area for any lurking dangers. The scent of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, tempting them to indulge.

But even as they ate, they remained vigilant, not letting their guard down for even a second. They filled their bags with a few snacks and bottles of water, just in case they had to make a run for it.

But where could they run to? The streets were deserted and every building looked like a potential death trap. After a brief discussion, Ashton suggested that they stay in the bakery itself, as it seemed safe enough. But Alex and Vicky were hesitant, pointing out that the front of the bakery was made entirely of glass and provided no other escape route.

Their options were limited, and the fear of the undead was starting to take its toll on them. With no safe haven in sight and the sun beating down on them mercilessly, they trudged on, desperate for some respite.

Afternoon 3:30

As they wandered through the housing colony, their hopes of finding a safe haven dwindled with each passing minute. The streets were eerily quiet, with no signs of life except for the occasional sound of shuffling feet. Suddenly, they heard growling sounds from nearby. They froze, hearts pounding in their chests, and slowly turned to face the source of the noise.

There, in the distance, was a group of zombies moving towards them, their eyes fixed on their prey. Panic set in as the three friends scrambled to find a place to hide. They spotted a car parked nearby and quickly hid behind it, hoping the zombies wouldn't see them. But it was too late. The zombies had picked up their scent and were closing in on them fast.

Thinking quickly, they managed to climb the wall of the nearest house and began knocking on the door, begging for help. But there was no answer. The silence was deafening, broken only by the sound of the zombies' growls as they drew closer.

Suddenly, a blood-curdling scream pierced the air from the other side of the house. The friends realized that the other side was not safe either. They were trapped, with no way out.

Desperate for shelter, they had no choice but to break into the house.