The boy in Tresha's arms—perhaps six or seven—peeked out from behind her. His eyes were wide and curious. He looked so much like Tresha had at that age, Sasha felt her throat tighten.
"What's his name?" she asked.
"Eian," Tresha whispered. "He's… all I have."
Daniel crouched down, smiling gently. "Hey, little guy. You're safe now."
The boy hesitated, then reached out and touched Daniel's sleeve. "Are there more monsters outside?"
Luis crouched too, trying to look brave. "Not anymore, buddy. We smashed them all up."
Getting back to the car was another story. The streets were thick with fog, and the distant groans of zombies echoed like a broken symphony.
Sasha led the way, her eyes scanning the corners, ready to levitate if necessary.
Daniel walked beside Tresha, offering her support. "You're sure you're alright?"
Tresha nodded faintly. "I'm… better now. Thank you."
Luis and Jax flanked them, alert and weary but oddly cheerful, whispering jokes back and forth.
