Chapter 13: Our Awkward Date...

The sun barely peeked over the horizon when George stepped out of his room, feeling the weight of the day ahead. The hallways of the mansion were already bustling with activity as survivors prepared for another day of building, cooking, and keeping the community alive. The scent of something delicious wafted from the kitchen, reminding him that Marcy was up early, cooking for the growing number of people who had made the mansion their home.

He passed by a few familiar faces, each offering a nod or a smile. But as much as George tried to stay focused on his upcoming date with Jackie, it was impossible to avoid the many tasks that came with leading a community in the middle of the apocalypse.

"George!" a voice called from behind him, and he turned to see Farah jogging up, her face tense with worry. "Do you have a second?"

"Sure," George replied, already sensing what this might be about.