(Begin)
Michelle led Howard and Emmet to a large, open area. "This is the common room. It has everything you'll ever need: games, movies, music, and food. Don't break anything, clean up after yourself, and we'll be a big, happy family."
Gesturing to a small wooden table, she continued. "This table has been in my family for years. Treat it with respect."
"Dinner will be planned by and cooked by me. If you need something more, feel free to use the pantry. Just remember, if you open it, you finish it."
"Water usage is to be kept at a minimum unless you plan to drink it. Otherwise, you ask me first."
"Now that we've established the ground rules, we can eat."
The three sat down to a meal of chicken steak and corn. Michelle retrieved two bottles of cream soda from the refrigerator and removed the caps with a bottle opener from her keyring. She took one and filled her companions' glasses before serving herself.
As they began to eat, Howard noticed two things. First, both Michelle and Emmet seemed nervous. Not once did she break eye contact with him, not even while draining her glass. Second, she kept a large switchblade under her keys. Probably to save bullets.
"Anyone want to hear a joke?" asked Emmet out of the blue.
Michelle didn't hesitate. "No. Eat your food and shut up."
Emmet clammed up and resumed eating.
No matter how hard he tried, Howard couldn't stop thinking about the keys. Michelle wouldn't have them unless there was more than one way out of the bunker. But how was he supposed to get them away from her?
Thinking fast, Howard turned to Emmet. "Are you any good at Monopoly?"
"Sure. I used to play all the time when I was young. Want to play a quick game?"
The sound of a fist slamming on the table surprised them both. In mere seconds, Michelle had Howard pinned against the wall, her fork against his throat.
"I know what you're doing."
"Michelle, please! We just want to play a game!"
"Shut up! You think you can undermine me, go behind my back? I saved your life, and you repay me with deceit!"
As her rage built up, Howard kept his eyes forward while he fumbled around for the keyring. After a few tries, he was able to tear them off her pant loop.
"I want an apology. And a promise that from now on, you will respect my authority."
"I'm sorry, Michelle. It won't happen again."
With that, Michelle lowered her fork and sat down, with Howard following her lead. Picking up his napkin, he pretended to place it in his lap. This gave him the chance to check his hands. He had the keys. Now he needed an opportunity.
(Stop)