Thomas quickly followed the woman as she gestured for him to move. She led him toward an office room down the hallway, her grip on the bloodied bat firm, her eyes scanning their surroundings for any more threats.
She was fast and moved with precision—someone who had been surviving here for a long time.
Thomas didn't ask questions. His instincts told him to trust her—at least for now.
They reached a door marked "Manager's Office."
The woman pulled out a keycard from her pocket, swiped it against the electronic lock, and pushed the door open. Thomas slipped inside first, and she followed quickly, slamming the door shut behind them.
A heavy click echoed as she engaged the manual locks.
Then, silence.