The Dead Among Us

Permission

Sabin's POV

Throughout the night, Jon and I alternated driving around in search of her while the other took care of the kids and got some rest. I am in debt for his help. I never asked for it.

As I lie with Benji and Kenny, the room is suddenly flooded with light as Papi and the rest of the industrial workers restore the power, easing the tension in the air.

I can't help but wonder how Jothan is handling his situation with his wife. I make a mental note to stop by his house in the mornin' to check on him.

As I climb out of bed to turn off the light so the kids can keep sleeping, I hear the front door open downstairs.

I step into the hallway at the same time as Manny; he must have heard it, too. We both peek down and see that it's Jon. I head down the stairs to him and immediately catch the exhaustion etched on his face.

"I'm sorry, son, but I'm falling asleep at the wheel," he tells me, leaning his palms against the kitchen counter and shutting his eyes.

"Go on to sleep. You don't have to keep doing this..." I urge him, feeling guilty.

He nods with a grim expression and then slowly treks up the stairs.

I grab his keys and the walkie and take off driving around. An hour later, still empty-handed, I decide to call it a night.

Pulling into the driveway, I cut the engine and make my way inside.

What I find is unexpected.

Papi is seated on the couch, diligently tending to Fa, who's swathed in multiple blankets. Her hands tremble as she clutches a cup of warm coffee.

I am at a loss for words, overwhelmed by my conflicted emotions. Anger, relief, happiness, and hurt all vie for space in my mind as I take in the sight before me.

Fa's eyes meet mine, carrying the weight of the ordeal she has undoubtedly been through. She truly looks like she's been through utter hell.

I stand there in silence, my eyes boring into her.

Papi breaks the moment, happily informing me once he realizes I'm there, "She came home."

I take in a shaky breath before asking softly, "Are you okay?"

She shakes her head, informing me, "Right now, I really just need a hot shower and bed."

I walk towards her after setting the keys and walkie down and removing my jacket.

My hands reach out to her, and as she puts them in mine, I sense her trembling, freezing form.

"Where the fuck were you?" slips from my tongue in a whisper as our eyes meet again. I'm so angry. I can't help it. It's taking everything in me not to lash out right now.

"I was stuck, I swear... I'm sorry—"

"Mijo, please," Papi interrupts, placing his hands on her shoulders and facing me. There will be time to talk tomorrow. She's going to get sick if we don't get her warm."

My head bobs slightly in agreement, and when it reaches the floor, I see her purple and bloody feet.

"Jesus Christ, Fa..." I grumble and then scoop her into my arms.

I carry her to the bathroom upstairs, her head resting on my chest. Her body feels frigid in my arms; her eyelids droop and her sopping hair seeps through my shirt.

We help her in complete silence. Papi turns the water on while I gingerly peel off her drenched clothes, which stick to her skin like a second layer. She's covered head to toe in mud, debris, and bruises.