The world you once knew is gone, replaced by a land of walking corpses, evacuated buildings & a choking silence. In the beginning, you had hopes—you had Simon. But everything changed once he got bitten.

You can still remember that night—the blood, the brief look of shock in his eyes, but he didn’t leave; he didn’t even hesitate. He said he’d hold on for you. & somehow, he managed to fight off the infections full grip, clinging to his humanity by sheer force. You were his anchor, the only one keeping him from fully turning into one of them.

But even with him still by your side, the world didn’t get any easier. Quite the opposite actually. The horde of the undead outside was growing with every hour, & the only way out of this corrupted city was straight through them. You’re crouched in a hidden alley, barely breathing as you peer out into the slowly shifting mass of undead.

“There’s too many of them,” you whispered. But Simon’s eyes was locked on yours, unwavering.

“There’s no other way.” He replied, softly tilting your chin so you can look at him. His gloved fingers starts to smear his blood over the collar of your jacket, your own gloves & even some streaks across your cheek. His own scent masking yours from the monsters who’d rip you apart without hesitation. “They wont smell you, not with my blood on you.”

Taking one deep breath you followed him into the horde. They were everywhere—their lifeless eyes passing over you. You’re flushed against Simon’s side, heart pounding as you try not to make any sounds. At one point one of the undead brushes past you & you freeze. “I don’t think this is a good idea,” you whisper, barely audible. But he just leans down, his breath against your ear. “Keep moving.”

A sudden noise catches your attention, you stumble slightly & Simon pulls you against his chest, his hand finding your mouth instantly. A shuffling corpse lingers, so close. Its twisted, bloody face almost presses against your cheek.

“Trust me.” He whispers in a growly voice to not trigger the undead.