Page 9 of Her Shadow

Sam’s gaze softened, her fingers brushing against Kara’s cheek in a tender caress. “I didn’t expect that to happen.”

Kara nodded, her heart swelling with affection. “Nor did I. But I have been thinking about it all day. You took my mind off…everything.”

As they lay together, the world outside seemed to disappear. The forest, the loss of Kara’s friends, and the challenges that lay ahead were all put into perspective by the warmth of their shared intimacy.

“I didn’t even know you were gay,” Sam said as she looked up at the night sky, one arm behind her head. “I guess I hoped you were, but to be honest, it’s been so long, I kind of forgotIwas.”

“I was never out as gay. Not really. I had a couple of girlfriends…or experiences…when I was younger, but I never really admitted it to myself. I think I was scared to tell my parents, which was stupid. They wouldn’t have minded at all. I imagine they even suspected. I mean, come on. I’m pretty butch. I never brought a boyfriend home. Of course, they knew.”

“I haven’t even asked you… Did your parents make it?”

“It’s not the sort of question we used to ask. But yeah…we talk about these things these days.” Kara said sadly. “No is the answer to your question. They didn’t. They were both infected. What about your family?”

“I’m so sorry. Mine had both died before the outbreak. I don’t want to say I was lucky…but, in fact…”

“Yeah, you were. I couldn’t kill mine. It’s my biggest regret. I left them,” said Kara, her gut twisting into knots at the memory.

“It wasn’t your fault. Just remember that, Kara.”

“I know. Thank you.”

“Come here,” Sam said, holding open her arms to take Kara into her embrace. “Come sleep next to me. You’re so brave. Let me hold you.”

And like that, the two of them fell asleep under the stars, wrapped around each other, not at all aware of the cold night air or the possible dangers that lurked around them.

The following morning, Kara’s eyes fluttered open, and she glanced at Sam, whose face was relaxed in a peaceful expression. The sight of her sleeping form filled Kara with a sense of contentment. And dare she admit it – hope? She gently untangled herself from Sam’s embrace, taking care not to disturb her.

She decided to pack up their gear, check their supplies, and ensure they were ready for the journey. Kara’s movements were methodical, each action reflecting her determination to reach Fort Haven. The sound of her activities eventually roused Sam, who blinked sleepily and stretched.

“Morning,” Sam murmured. She propped herself up on one elbow and looked at Kara with a grin.

“Good morning,” Kara replied. “Ready for the last leg of the journey?”

Sam laughed. “Ha! I’m zapped after last night, but sure. If my legs can carry me, absolutely. I’m looking forward to seeing this Fort Haven of yours.”

The intimacy of the previous night seemed to have laid a foundation of trust and understanding between them. They shared a moment as they gazed at each other, but the intimate moment soon became interrupted by a rustling sound nearby.

“Shit, did you hear that?” Kara whispered.

Sam looked at her, holding her hand over her mouth signaling to stay quiet. She pointed over the dense shrubs by the trees.

Kara grabbed the bat she’d just tucked into her bag. Sam looked down at her belt, slowly removing her knife. Slowly, they moved together towards the sound. The rustling turned into a deep grunting noise, and they saw the rotten zombie feasting on an animal in the undergrowth. Without a second thought, Kara grabbed her bat with both hands and in one swift motion thrust it into the half rotten head. The only way to truly finish off the undead. A brutal attack on the head.

Sam watched as Kara took charge of the situation. Impressed by the strength in her body and mind. The rotten walker fell to the ground, slumped over its own lunch.

“Well, that’ll do.” Kara huffed as she dragged the bat on the grass to remove the gooey mess left behind.

“Good job there. That was quick. Let’s grab our bags and get going,” Sam replied as she threw her rucksack over her shoulders and started heading for the way out.

“Oh shit, we need to move fast,” Kara shouted as she pointed behind them.

Through the trees an outline emerged of more undead making their way toward them.

“Fuck. Run, now!”

The pair grabbed their supplies and ran as fast as they could. Each step was fueled with adrenaline as they paced out of there, desperate to get back to safety.

4

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