The McGuffin
As the zombie in front of me does not seem particularly interested in having a lingering discussion on the nature of her new physiology, I weigh my options quickly. It doesn't look like there are any others behind her. I could probably make a break for the hallway. But it doesn't take much to get infected, just a scratch and a bit of mucus, from what I hear. And based on what I've seen from the folks at Abel, they aren't the sort to give me a comfortable bed while they see whether I heal or get sick. No, I'd be more likely to earn a bullet for my troubles. Can't be too careful these days, after all.
But I'm on the ground floor, so instead, I swing the file case around with my good arm and send it flying through the window, then take a running start and leap through after it. My feet hit on good, soft, once-landscaped ground, but when I roll forward I scrape on concrete. Not much, but another reason to keep moving. I get up and look around for my shiny silver box, which is just ahead on the asphalt of the parking lot.
Of course, there are now several dozen zombies looking my direction as well.
Cursing, I dash for the file case, crouch to grab it, tuck it under my good arm and set off at a dead run. I'd rather pace myself, but at the moment all I can think of is putting as much distance as possible between me and that swarm. Still, even though cutting across the grounds looks like it'd be a bit more direct, I head for the road. The paved surface will make it easier to see any holes or loose stones that could send me for a tumble, which right now would probably mean death.
The growling and groaning gets fainter behind me. It's tempting to look back, but I focus on my stride and the ground ahead of me. I do ease up somewhat, though. I think I can see Abel's fence up ahead, but I've still got a ways to go, and I may need to do a bit of evasive maneuvering yet.
There's Sam again. It's actually kind of nice to hear a familiar voice. Or maybe I'm just glad to hear any voice that isn't moaning hungrily.
Apparently they've got security cameras positioned up along the fence. Might even be some on the road here… I try to avoid thinking about that, though. It's creepy.
And Doctor Max wants me to protect this Very Special Silver Case with my life. And of course she's super-dodgy about why I should or what it is. Yeah, go ahead, try to distract me by scaring me. Like I'm gonna – aw, hell.