Chapter 7: The Mansion
Sophia gasped, covering her mouth. "That's Uncle Lee and Aunt Linda..." Seeing a stranger as a zombie was one thing; seeing someone she once knew was another. Her face paled.
"Let's leave the reunion for another time," Zack said, his tone cold. He pressed the accelerator harder, sending the vehicle forward. Sophia shut her eyes, but the familiar sound of crunching bones as they rolled over the undead was unavoidable.
Overwhelmed, Sophia began to sob. Seeing familiar faces turned into monsters was too much for her. Zack, don't know what to say, simply muttered, "Let it out," as he continued to drive, circling the community to clear any remaining zombies.
They passed four or five more, mostly former security guards, and he crushed them with little thought. When the streets were clear, he finally parked in front of Mansion No. 9, got out, and forced open the courtyard gate. Sophia's tears eventually slowed, though her eyes were red and swollen. At that moment, Ego chimed in with unexpected advice.
"Sir, data suggests that women are most vulnerable to romantic feelings when emotionally distressed."
Zack rolled his eyes. "Thanks, Ego. But we have more pressing priorities than romance right now."
Grabbing his shotgun, he exited the vehicle. Sophia joined him, wielding the makeshift bat he had crafted for her. Though the weapon was heavy, it gave her a small sense of security.
As they entered the Mansion's courtyard, an alarm suddenly blared, piercing the quiet. Sophia Monroe slapped her forehead.
"I forgot! This mansion belongs to Mr. Whitaker, a well-known collector. His security system is probably top-notch. We might not even get through the front door without setting off more alarms!" she said, tugging at his sleeve in a panic.
Zack only smiled. A second later, the alarm stopped abruptly.
"Sir, the alert has been cleared, and the system is now configured to recognize only your pupils and fingerprints."