Chapter 91:
The convoy rumbled along the cracked road, its tires crunching over gravel and debris. The imposing silhouette of the base grew sharper with every passing moment.
A transparent dome arched over the structure, gleaming faintly under the pale, polluted sunlight.
Zara leaned her head against the window, her gaze fixed on the dome. "It’s probably for the mist," she murmured absently, her voice almost lost beneath the hum of the engine.
Her hand rested protectively on Leo’s small shoulder, keeping him close as he stared wide-eyed at the approaching fortress.
Winter sat stiffly beside her, his rifle balanced across his lap. Outwardly calm, his jaw clenched and unclenched rhythmically. His eyes flickered toward the gate, but his thoughts were elsewhere—on his team.
Had they made it to City H? Were they even alive? Guilt gnawed at him, sharper than the hunger he’d grown used to ignoring.
He’d pushed the memories aside for weeks, prioritizing survival and taking care of Zara and Leo. But now, as they made their way to the gates.
"Winter," Zara said softly, her brows knitting together as she studied him. "You good?"
His gaze snapped to her, and for a moment, he didn’t answer. Then he nodded, shifting in his seat. "Just... thinking."
She decided to chalk it up to nerves. They were all on edge.
In the backseat, Mike leaned forward, his wiry frame squished between Sam and Richard. He let out a shaky laugh. "Bet they’ll hose us down like laundry before they let us in."