Seconds later, two guards carrying rusted AK47’s on slings came around a corner. Decapitated heads on spears gaped, eye sockets picked clean. Infected lashed to poles rasped at the sight of him. The barricades and rubbish blocking the streets around Ke Tau’s headquarters came into view. After a quick survey of his surroundings, he rose and walked the final distance. He rubbed more dirt into his jacket, shirt, and pants. The clothes he wore were old and tattered and rips covered the material. Michael smeared it over his face and arms, rubbing the grime beneath his nails. Settling the pack back in place, he reached down and scooped up a handful of dirt. The remaining items in his pack were sparse, no more than a wandering survivor might carry: a tattered blanket, tin cup, spoon, and fork, a rusted pistol containing three rounds, canned food, more water, and socks. Then he ate the food Elise had packed for him, popping the boiled eggs into his mouth one after the other. He drank a bottle of water, downing the cool liquid in one long gulp.

He slung his backpack off, setting it down. Pause, hunkering down behind an electrical box to make sure the area was clear. “You okay now?” “Yeah, I’m fine.” “ I’m going to patrol the place. Just leave it at that.” He reached out a hand and she took it, letting him help her up. “What about you? Why don’t you stay there?” Logan flicked the remains of his cigarette into the toilet and stood up. At least, you’d be safe.” She stared at him. “ Look, I’ll tell you all about them if you’re interested. It would be nice, living with other people, having friends. “They stay in a camp far from here.” “ Really? How many of them? Are they safe? Are there other teenagers?” Excitement filled her at the thought. I mean, I do.” “I don’t understand,” she said. “ They’re gone now.” “ I’m sorry.” The gecko caught the mosquito. Other survivors.” She looked at the ceiling, voice hoarse. “I don’t have anything to run from.” “ Have you been alone all this time?” Logan asked, remembering the feral woman.

Forget it.” “ Are you running from something?” she asked. Moment, she added, “ I’m sorry for what I said earlier.

Last Another Day by Baileigh Higgins