“On foot? That will take weeks!” Jessica said.
“Not necessarily,” Imogen said. “We’ve got the Jeep and the van. Both run, and there’s enough fuel for the trip.”
“It’s too dangerous,” Jessica protested.
“We don’t have a choice,” Seth said. “Our people rely on us for help. We can’t let them down.”
“He’s right,” Rogue added. “We don’t have a choice.”
“You’d really do that? Risk your lives traveling through unknown territory?” Jessica asked.
“We would,” Seth said, looking around at his group.
“We’re all in this together,” Tony said.
“I’m with them,” Bear said.
Jessica shook her head. “I don’t know about this.”
“It’s the only way, but I don’t expect you to risk your life for us. We’ll go alone,” Seth said. He turned to Imogen. “Will you give us the vehicles and fuel? We can work out a trade. I’m authorized to speak on behalf of our people. Both the Primes and the Exiles.”
“Of course. You killed the Spinosaurus. I owe you one,” she said.
“Brittany killed it,” Rogue said, her voice low.
“She sounds incredibly brave. I’m sorry for your loss,” Imogen said. “I would’ve loved the chance to meet her.”
“Thank you, and my condolences for Barry, Ralph, and Allen too,” Rogue said.
“At least that monster is dead,” Jessica said. “I suspect it was a man-eater.”
“Man-eater?” Rogue asked with a frown.
“It hates people, and hunts them whenever it can,” Jessica said.
“Why would it hate people?” Rogue asked.
“I noticed it had a couple of old bullet wounds. Some were festering, and it must’ve been in a lot of pain,” Jessica said. “We’re not the first to come across its path.”
“No, but we’re the last,” Imogen said with a sense of unexpected sympathy. The fact that the beast was suffering cast its attack in a different light. At least, its torment is at an end.
Seth looked around the table. “So, it’s settled. We leave for Vancouver in the morning.”
Jessica sighed. “I’ll go with you.”
“You don’t have to,” Seth said.
“I do. I’ve seen most of the terrain from the air, and I know the way. Plus, you could use my expertise.”
“We could, and we’d be happy to have you,” Seth conceded.
“I’ll go with you,” Imogen said, making her mind up on the spot.
“Your mom won’t like that,” Casey said.
“She’s not here.”
“I could fly you to Vancouver, and you could prepare the way for Seth and his group,” Casey reasoned.
“I could, but my mom’s never listened to me before. She’ll want to speak to them herself. Especially Seth, as he’s their ambassador.”
“Who’s your mother?” Seth asked.
“She’s the Mayor of Vancouver.”
“I see,” he said, his expression thoughtful. “Do you think she’ll help us?”
“She will, as long as there’s something in it for her, and by her, I mean Vancouver,” Imogen said. “Remember that when you talk to her.”
“Thanks for the tip,” Seth said.
“Are you sure about going with them, Imogen?” Casey said.
“I’m sure.”
“In that case, I have my own proposal to make.”
“What is it?”
“We have an infirmary stocked to the brim with antibiotics, painkillers, bandages, gauze, needles, IV bags, and lots more,” Casey said.
“Okay?” Imogen said, uncertain where she was heading.
“I propose packing it up and delivering it to Prime City. It’s not enough, but it might buy them some time. It could save a few lives, at least.”
“That’s not a bad idea,” Imogen said. “We can’t take it with us on the trip, which means it’ll go to waste.”
“I’m sure Prime would be exceedingly grateful,” Seth said.
“I’ll need a guide. Someone to show me where to go and who to speak to,” Casey said.
Seth looked at each person in his group. “Any volunteers?”
“I’ll go,” Paul said, raising his hand. “I don’t belong here. We all know that.”
“That’s not true. You’re part of the group,” Seth protested.
“I only came because of that stupid fight with Sandi,” Paul said. “And now, Brittany’s dead, and all I can think about is how little time I might have left. Time I’d rather spend by Sandi’s side. I’m sorry, guys, but that’s how it is.”
Rogue reached out and squeezed his hand. “I think we can all understand that.”
“Yes, you have nothing to apologize for,” Seth said.
“Then it’s settled,” Casey said. “I’ll pack up the supplies in the infirmary tonight.”
“I’ll help,” Paul said.
“Thanks. We leave at dawn. Make sure you’re ready,” she added.
“I will be.”
“Send our regards to everyone, and tell them we won’t fail,” Seth said.
“I’ll tell them,” Paul said.
Imogen pushed back her chair. “It seems we are all agreed on a course of action. Now, for the big question.”
Quizzical eyes turned to her.
“What’s for supper?” she asked, and laughter did the rounds. It lightened the mood and created a sense of solidarity. Something they’d need in the days to come.
Chapter 12
Rogue woke up to the sound of Seth snoring in her ears. She tried to move but found herself trapped within the cage created by his arms and legs. His weight pressed down on her chest, and she wiggled out from underneath with a gasp of relief. Once freed, she looked for her pants but gave up when she couldn’t find them. Driven by the siren’s call coming from the bathroom, she dashed across the hall.
Once she’d finished her ablutions, Rogue jumped into the shower, unable to resist the lure of hot water. She’d already had two showers the night before but relished the idea of another. The warm stream massaged her sore muscles and soothed the ache in her joints. A thick lather of scented soap completed the experience, and she watched the suds wash down the drain. The miracle of plumbing.
Ever since they’d arrived, she’d been amazed at the level of comfort contained within the living quarters. From the outside, the building hadn’t looked like much. It was just another square structure made from brick and mortar. But on the inside, it was like a wonderland, one she’d taken full advantage of.
Rogue dried herself with a towel and wrapped it around her body. With her shirt tucked underneath her arm, she returned to bed. Her bare feet padded across the carpet, and she slipped between the covers with a shiver. It was still dark outside, and everything was quiet. Peaceful.
“Where have you been?” Seth asked, stirring next to her.
“In the shower,” she said with a languid smile.
“Again?” he said with a chuckle.
“Again,” she agreed.
“What time is it?” he asked, reaching for the curtain.
“No, don’t look,” Rogue said. “Let’s pretend we can stay here forever.”
“That’s a pleasant thought. Too bad it’s not real,” he said, pulling her close.
“Sh, we’re pretending, remember?” she said, snuggling against his side.
“You smell nice.”
“It’s called soap.”
“I like it. You should use it more often.”
“Don’t be mean,” she said with a giggle.
“Sh, we’re pretending, remember?” he replied with a grin.
“Ass,” Rogue said, closing her eyes.
Within minutes, Seth had dozed off again, and she allowed herself to drift off as well.
An hour later, Casey banged on the door. “Breakfast in ten minutes!”
Rogue groaned and pulled the curtain away from the window. The sky had turne
d into a light grey, and the first hints of orange colored the horizon. “I guess it’s time to get up.”
“Why? Ten minutes is plenty of time,” Seth said, nuzzling her ear.
“You can’t be serious. Aren’t you tired after last night?” she asked.
“Not in the least. Are you?” he asked with a wink.
“No, but—”
“This could be our last chance in a while,” Seth coaxed.
“Fine,” Rogue said, allowing him to pull her close.
But, luck was not on their side. Seconds later, Paul barged into the room. “Come on, guys. It’s time to get up. There are pancakes for breakfast.”
Rogue’s head popped up. “Did you say pancakes?”
“Blueberry pancakes and syrup,” Paul said with a grin.
“I’ll be right out,” Rogue said, pushing back the covers.
Paul closed the door, and Seth said. “Are you serious?”
“Blueberry pancakes, Seth. Blueberry pancakes with syrup,” Rogue repeated with extra emphasis on each word.
He rolled his eyes. “Fine, I’m getting up.”
Breakfast turned out to be everything Paul promised and more: Blueberry pancakes with syrup, slices of smoked ham, fresh green apples, and coffee.
Rogue wasted no time. She piled her plate high with pancakes and ham. A generous helping of sugar and creamer turned her coffee into a milky mess, one she enjoyed to the fullest.
“You’re going to overdose on sugar,” Seth cautioned.
“No such thing,” she quipped, taking a deep bite of her pancakes.
“Alright, but you’re going to crash when you come off that sugar high, and you’re going to crash hard.”
“I’ll deal with it then,” Rogue said, flashing him a benign smile.
He snorted and turned his attention toward his own food.
Rogue took the opportunity to study the others around the table. Casey was brisk and business-like, ready to perform her duties. Paul couldn’t stop grinning, ecstatic at the prospect of returning home. Jessica looked calm and collected while Bear ate enough for three people. So did Tony. She avoided looking at David, not willing to fall into a pit of grief yet, and focused on Imogen instead.
The girl fascinated her. She was like a splash of color in a monochrome world. From her bright red hair, blue eyes, and crazy dress sense to her tinkling laugh and sunny disposition. There was nothing ordinary about her.
“Did you sleep well, Rogue?” Imogen asked, seeming to sense Rogue’s interest.
“Very well, thank you. I haven’t slept on a mattress that soft in a long time,” Rogue said, and she meant every word. “Plus, I had two showers. Three, actually.”
Imogen laughed. “I’m glad you’ve enjoyed your stay.”
“Yup, I could get used to this,” Rogue said, returning her smile.
“Well, don’t,” David said in a sharp tone of voice. “This isn’t a holiday. People are dying, and everyone’s counting on us.”
Rogue sucked in a deep breath but refrained from answering. She understood the reason for his ill humor. He didn’t want her or anyone else to be happy after Brittany’s death.
“David, what—” Seth began, but Rogue kicked his leg.
Seth shot her a look, but took her meaning and remained silent. The others followed his example, and an uncomfortable silence fell across the room. David returned to his food, his expression a mixture of anger and embarrassment.
After a time, Rogue reached out and touched his hand. “I miss her too, David. We all do.”
He swallowed hard and nodded. “Thank you.”
After breakfast, they got ready for the trip. Paul and Casey loaded the plane while the rest equipped the Jeep and van. Everyone except for Jessica and Bear. They were more interested in the weapons cache than anything else. By the time they were done, they’d filled the van to the brim with guns and ammunition.
“Right, are we packed and ready to go?” Jessica asked.
Rogue took a last look around the room and shouldered her bag. “All done.”
“Excellent.”
“Wait,” Rogue called. “Are you sure you want to do this? You don’t have to. You could stay here until someone came for you, or—”
Jessica raised one hand. “I’ve got my reasons.”
“Does one of those reasons involve Bear?” Rogue asked with caution.
To her relief, Jessica laughed. “Come on. We need to get going.”
Rogue followed Jessica into the early morning sun and walked toward the waiting Cessna. Casey and Paul were there, ready to take their leave.
“Have a safe flight,” Rogue said, shaking Casey’s hand. She grabbed Paul and gave him a hug. “And say hello to Sandi for me.”
He hugged her back. “I’ll tell her. Be safe. All of you.”
After saying goodbye to the others, he climbed into the plane, followed by Casey. She performed her pre-flight checks before starting the engine.
Rogue stood back and watched as the Cessna took off. It ran down the runway before lifting into the air with effortless grace. To her, it seemed like a miracle, and she kept watching long after the plane disappeared.
“Come on,” Seth said.
They walked toward the Jeep, and she gazed at the vehicle for a second. “Who’s driving? I never learned how.”
“Me neither,” Seth said. “Unless you count a tractor.”
“I can drive, but I’m rusty,” Jessica said. “My dad taught me when I was young, but I haven’t had a lot of opportunity since then.”
“I’ll do it,” Bear said, taking the Jeep’s keys.
“And I’ll drive the van,” Tony said.
It made sense. The two men were the oldest among the group and must’ve learned before the Shift. Rogue shoved her bag into the back of the Jeep and climbed in, joined moments later by Jessica. Bear and Seth got into the front while Tony, David, and Imogen got into the van.
Seth looked at her over his shoulder. “Ready to go?”
“More than ready,” she replied, grinning despite herself.
“You do know that we’re embarking on a life-threatening, possibly suicidal mission, right?” Jessica asked with a quizzical look.
“I know, but I can’t help it. There’s a whole world out there that I haven’t seen yet, and I’m just too excited to be scared right now,” Rogue said with a grin.
Jessica returned her grin. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m excited too.”
Bear grunted. “There’s no point in being scared. We have to face life head-on, or else, we’re stuck forever on the sidelines.”
“You’re right, though I didn’t think you were the philosophical type,” Seth said.
“You’d be surprised,” Bear replied with a grin.
“Well then? What are we waiting for?” Rogue asked, settling into her seat.
Bear drove out of the gates, bouncing across the rough, pitted road. Seth wielded an ancient roadmap provided by Imogen, and they struck a course for the center of Kalama. The van followed close on their heels, its black paint chipped and faded with age.
Rogue tried to contain her eagerness. While this was the start of the adventure she’d always wanted, she’d learned to expect failure too. If there was one thing Brittany’s death had taught her, it was that life wasn’t fair, and no one got out alive.
Chapter 13 - Kat
“Congratulations. You’re pregnant,” Doctor Bloomberg said in his signature baritone.
His gray eyes twinkled at her from beneath bushy white eyebrows, and she was reminded once again of Father Christmas. The way his shirt bulged over his rotund belly and the soft white beard that rested on his chest completed the picture.
“That’s impossible,” she said, unable to believe her ears.
“Oh, it’s entirely possible,” Dr. Bloomberg assured her. “You’re still young enough to bear children, plus you’re strong and healthy.”
Kat lay on her back, staring at the ceiling. Her mind
was a blur, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. No. It can’t be. “Dr. Bloomberg. You don’t understand. I can’t have children I… I… the other doctor, he…”
“He hurt you, didn’t he? He probably wasn’t even an actual doctor, just a hack pulled off the street to perform a butcher’s job,” Dr. Bloomberg said, his cheeks reddening with anger.
Unfortunately, it had the opposite effect, giving him a jolly look instead. “This is why doctors need to apply for a license. So that those without one can be jailed for their wrongdoings,” he blustered. “Look at you, my dear. He could’ve killed you!”
“How did you know?” she asked, bitter tears stinging her eyelids.
“I saw the scarring. It’s old, but it’s there,” Dr. Bloomberg said, reaching out to squeeze her hand.
“Doesn’t that prevent me from having children? That’s what the midwife said when she examined me afterward.”
“She was wrong, my dear. She made a mistake. It happens,” Dr. Bloomberg said.
“She was wrong?” Kat said with a mixture of wonder and fear. “I’m pregnant?”
“Eleven weeks, my dear, and everything looks good so far,” Dr. Bloomberg said. “The pregnancy is progressing exactly the way it should.”
Kat blinked. “I can’t believe it. I’m going to have a baby.”
“Indeed, you are. A big, strong healthy baby, if I have anything to do with it.” Dr. Bloomberg patted her hand and stood up. “I’ll give you a few moments to yourself.”
He exited the exam room, leaving her alone with her emotions. Kat felt like she was about to explode with joy. She’d never even allowed herself to dream of the possibility. But, now it was a reality. I’m going to be a mom!
Kat bolted upright and jumped off the bed. She got dressed with haste, her hands shaking with excitement. I need to find Callum. I have to tell him the news.
She washed and disinfected her hands before donning her gloves and mask. The plastic overcoat she wore crackled when she moved. Even here, in Dr. Bloomberg’s private offices, caution prevailed.
She glanced around the exam room, marveling at how normal it seemed. It was neat and quiet. A far cry from the rest of the infirmary.
Kat was glad she’d thought of creating a separate space for those not afflicted by the Red Flux. A place where pregnant women, sick children, and the accident-prone could get treated without being exposed to the deadly disease.
The Extinction Series | Book 6 | Primordial Earth 6 Page 8