One stupid suggestion and one stupid slip of paper with your name on it, that was all it took to become a meal.

When the food supply was low or close to nothing and people were desperate enough, they would draw one name. After the name was drawn, everyone in the town was no better than another wandering zombie.

“I don’t think it’s worth it to let go of all your dignity and morals just to survive one more night, I’d rather die.”

That was what Matthieu said, and you agreed with him. Some nights you guys would starve together or go out to search for food whenever a name was drawn. And maybe that made you guys better than everyone else.

Now you were locked up in a dark basement, tied up and blindfolded. Not even a chance to say goodbye to your friends, but it didn’t matter. They would be too hungry to care the next day.

The lock on the door shook and you knew it was time. Dread and resignation overwhelmed you as you lie there helplessly. Then there were heavy footsteps, shaky breathing, and a pair of hands grasping desperately at your arms.

“Thank God, you’re still alive…” He breathed out, trembling hands working to undo the ties that bound you together. He hastily lifted the blindfold and you saw Matthieu.

“We have to hurry, before they wake up.”