The Bet That Broke the Lock

Jenner was pinned firmly by Shane. All he could do was watch as Jason pressed a series of numbers on the keypad and inserted the stolen work ID.

"Access granted. Door unlocked."

A mechanical voice echoed, and the heavy door behind them slowly slid open.

"That's pretty slick."

Shane gave Jason a thumbs up, genuinely impressed. "You actually cracked the code? Man, you're something else."

"How did you know the password? And how did you even know how to operate it?"

Jenner was now completely shaken. He broke free from Shane's grip, stepped forward, and stared at Jason, desperate for an explanation.

"It was simple. I've been watching you."

Jason gave a calm smile, pulling up a chair and sitting down casually. "From the moment we entered, you barely moved. You tried to cover the controls earlier, but I still caught your movements. And the password? You touched the panel—left fingerprints. I just followed the traces."

With his Eagle Eye skill, the smudges on the keypad were as clear as day.

"You're… not even human."

Jenner slumped into a chair, defeated. The situation had turned completely. He thought locking the door would trap everyone in here forever. He even made a bet—one he never expected to lose.

Now, by his own word, he had to go with them. But he didn't want to.

"Face reality. This is fate. A doctor like you—rotting away in here—is that really how you want to live?"

Jason placed a hand gently on Jenner's shoulder and spoke with a reassuring tone. "Sure, the outside world is dangerous. But we're not alone out there. We're a team. We protect each other. With us, you won't have to face the undead alone."

Jason was determined. He needed Jenner. Medical support was no longer a luxury—it was essential.

"You'll die if you stay here. Sooner or later."

Seeing Jenner waver, Jason leaned in.

"Your power and food won't last forever. When they run out, you'll be trapped here, starving. And don't forget your mission—the reason you became a doctor. You wanted to help people. Come with us. Help us save lives."

"…What?"

Jenner's eyes widened in shock. That last sentence struck a nerve.

He stared at Jason, his voice trembling. "How… how do you know that? Who are you?!"

How could this stranger know about his personal commitment—his agreement, his purpose?

"I'm just a survivor. Nothing more."

Jason didn't elaborate. He smiled gently and met Jenner's eyes.

"I'll give you a few minutes to think. Our team is camped outside the city. For their safety, we can't stay here long. Make your decision quickly."

Jason had said all he needed to. Now, the choice was Jenner's.

But even if the doctor refused, Jason would still take him. Once they left the facility, it would be a done deal. Jenner would have no choice but to move forward.

While Jenner sat in silent conflict, Jason took the chance to examine the facility.

If the city hadn't fallen, this place would've made an ideal base. It had intact infrastructure, high-end equipment, and everything one could ask for—as long as there was power.

Too bad it's all out of reach now.