Tears flowed down Helen’s face as she read the note aloud.  Allistor found himself a little choked up as well.  He lifted the keys from the desk and cleared his throat.  “Maybe he’s still alive out there somewhere.”

Helen nodded and followed him out of the office.   They quickly made the rounds, using the keys to secure all the doors and big gate leading out to the mall.   Then they grabbed a couple of chairs and sat near the gate, watching and listening.  Fuzzy stuck his nose between the links and sniffed, then just sat down and looked at Allistor.

“I say we wait until tomorrow to try and clear this place,” Helen said.  She was still bummed by the letter. “That’s a lot of open territory for two people to cover.”

Allistor nodded.  Leaving the gate area, they made their way over to the household section.  There were actually four beds set up as displays, along with a few sofas and recliners, dressers, and such.   They grabbed a bunch of sheets and blankets and worked together to make a couple of the beds.  Then Allistor piled blankets on the floor between them for Fuzzy.  The cub wasted no time, a few quick sniffs, and he curled up and closed his eyes.

Mentally tired, Allistor and Helen did some quick shopping.  He grabbed a few pairs of jeans, T-shirts, and sweat shorts to sleep in.  She returned with similar items, plus a full pair of silk pajamas.  “Always wanted a set of these, but rangers don’t get paid much.” She grinned at him and headed for the dressing room.   He changed where he was while she was inside, plopped down into one of the recliners.  A quick look at the glass doors showed afternoon sunlight outside.

When Helen rejoined him, they talked for a few hours, sharing stories about family and their past lives.  Catching each other up on all the events since the apocalypse began.  When Helen yawned widely and caused Allistor to do the same, they retired to their beds for the evening.  Allistor said he’d take first watch, but Helen shook her head.  “With the doors all locked, we’ll hear anything trying to get in.  And Fuzzy will let us know if anything gets close.  We both need the sleep.”

Too tired to argue, Allistor said, “Good enough.  Sweet dreams.”

It wasn’t five minutes before they were both sound asleep.

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Fifteen

Ditch the Twitch