Live Another Day Page 7

  “Kind of. I’ll know when I see it,” Nadia replied with a smile.

  After several minutes of searching, she emerged with two pairs of sturdy jeans, socks, sports underwear, a couple of tank tops, and a beautiful leather jacket and belt.

  She completed the selection with a long screwdriver, a small hatchet, black eyeliner which she found in a bin full of dusty makeup, and a box which caused Marie to raise an eyebrow.

  “This color, hun? You’re sure about that?”

  “I’m sure, thanks, Marie.” Nadia looked around. “Have you got any earrings? You know like studs and so on.”

  “Well, I don’t know, I think so.” Marie rummaged around underneath the counter before coming up with a wrinkled box. “There’s a few costume jewelry things in there. Have a look.”

  Nadia picked out a few items before the quizzical gaze of Marie. “That should do it. Thank you so much for everything. I’ll never forget it.”

  Marie’s eyes shone with unshed tears. “It’s all right, honey. Now run along before I break down and cry.”

  Nadia left and walked back to the house she shared Logan, carrying her latest acquisitions in her arms. Along the way, a huge grin broke out on her face. It felt good to be back. “Time for a change.”

  Chapter 8 - Logan

  Logan got up early, as he usually did, and had a long hot shower. He lingered under the stream of water, knowing full well it might be the last one he got in a long time. Unlike some of the town residents, he knew what lay outside the walls, and it was not pretty.

  After brushing his teeth, he got dressed in what he termed his field clothes. It was a basic combo of jeans, jacket, t-shirt, and boots coupled with a knife and gun that rode on his hips in their holsters.

  He tossed the remainder of his belongings into a backpack, pocketed the keys to his Land Rover, and slung his rifle across his back. That concluded his preparations for the trip, and he made his way to the kitchen.

  To his surprise, Nadia was already there, which did not happen often. At the sight of her, he froze in his tracks. “Nadia? Is that you?”

  She looked up from her steaming cup of coffee and winked. “Yup.”

  Her blonde hair had been colored a deep purple-black, and the vivid aquamarine shade of her eyes was shocking against the dark backdrop. They were further enhanced by black eyeliner and mascara.

  To top it off, she wore her old biker boots over jeans, a hot pink tank top with a leather jacket, and once more sported an assortment of hardware. Though her face was bare besides a stud in her nose and a ring in her eyebrow, she wore several chunky rings on her fingers, and her usual cross hung on its chain around her neck.

  “I can’t believe it.” He plonked his ass down on a chair and took the cup she offered. “You’re back.”

  “You bet I am.” She turned her head this way and that. “Do you like it?”

  “That depends.”

  “On what?”

  “No more whining and complaining about people not liking you?”

  “No more bitching,” she agreed.

  “Is the kick my ass, take no shit from anybody attitude back?”

  “Pretty much,” she said with a wicked grin.

  “Then I like.”

  “Good. Now eat your food so we can get a move on.” She indicated a plate of sliced ham, the canned variety, over a bed of savory porridge.

  “Thanks.” He picked up his fork and dug in. “Have you already eaten?”

  “Done and dusted. I just want to get going.”

  “I’ll hurry,” he said.

  “Just don’t choke and die on me.”

  He snorted. “Not likely.”

  As he ate, he contemplated her, noting the relaxed ease of her posture. She must have had some epiphany since he’d last seen her outside the meeting, a fact he was glad for. Neurotic, insecure Nadia had not been good for his peace of mind. Still, he was unsure how far the change had gone.

  “Have you…” he hesitated.

  “Spit it out, Logan.”

  “Have you spoken to Donya?”

  A flash of pain crossed her features. “I have.”

  “And?”

  “And she’s right.”

  Logan inhaled sharply and choked on a chunk of porridge. He sputtered and wheezed until Nadia jumped up and slapped him on the back. She shoved a glass of water under his nose, and it took a full minute before he regained his composure.

  “I told you not to choke and die on me,” she scolded.

  “She’s right? Donya’s right? Did I hear that right?”

  “Not about everything,” Nadia said. “But she was correct about one thing. I’ve been lying to myself all along, thinking I could pretend to be someone I’m not. I believe she termed it being a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

  “I see. Go on.”

  “It’s not right lying to other people either. I am dangerous, and they should know that. It was selfish of me to keep it a secret.”

  Logan absorbed this in silence before he nodded. “I’m glad. So long as you stop with the freak and murderer nonsense.”

  Nadia took a sip of her coffee before replying. “I’ve thought about it, and while I’m not a hundred percent at peace with what I’ve done, I’ve got to accept it. I’m not a freak, just different. I’m not a murderer either. It was an accident.”

  “When did this all happen? It seems a little sudden.”

  “Let’s just say an old memory helped me to move on.”

  “Can I ask what?”

  “I’d rather not. You’ve got your secrets, and I’ve got mine.”

  Logan’s heart skipped a beat at her words, old pain reawakening as Morgan’s golden-green eyes flashed in front of his eyes. He managed a half-smile. “Fair enough.”

  Logan scooped up the last of his food before washing his dish in the washbasin. As he dried his hands, he turned to her. “Well, I’m glad you’re back. Now let’s kick some ass. Ready?”

  “Ready!”

  Logan left the apartment that had been their home for a month behind without any feelings of regret. While St. Francis had been kind to them, it was time to move on. Time to go home.

  ***

  The Land Rover was parked in the public lot along with all the other vehicles available in the town, so this was where Logan headed. It was a bright day, though cold, and a stiff breeze blew in off the ocean bringing with it the taste of salt.

  Martin was already there, along with Josh and three others. As they neared, Logan recognized the other people with him, and his stomach dropped. While Jed was an excellent addition to the party, a man from the watch and a good fighter, the other two spelled trouble.

  Next to Logan, Nadia faltered. He reached out a hand and gripped her elbow. “It’s okay. I’m here.”

  “Thanks,” she whispered as Donya and Caleb’s eyes fixed on her, one with loathing, the other with guarded optimism.

  The distance between them closed, and Logan halted a few steps away from Martin and the rest. His gaze settled on first Donya then Caleb. Inside, he boiled with glacial rage. “Is this a joke?”

  “No joke,” Martin replied. “She asked to accompany us. I couldn’t refuse.”

  “Couldn’t refuse?” Logan asked. “With their shared history? You don’t think it odd that she suddenly wants to go with us?”

  “She’s assured me she won’t cause any trouble.”

  “And you believe her?” Logan barked out a short laugh. “This is ridiculous.”

  Caleb’s eyes narrowed at Logan’s words, his gaze jumping from Donya to Na
dia and back. “What’s going on?”

  Jed nodded, his expression likewise confused. “I’d also like to know.”

  Irritated at the interruption, Logan snapped at Caleb. “Not that you’re any better.”

  “Excuse me?” Caleb asked, his green eyes narrowing.

  “You heard me. I’ve watched you running after Nadia like a puppy dog, and I don’t like it.”

  “It’s none of your business. You’re not her father.”

  “Logan felt his hands clench into fists but controlled himself with an effort. “I’m as good as.”

  Nadia tugged on his arm with both hands. “Logan, please. I can handle this.”

  He looked into her pleading eyes and sighed. “Fine. Go ahead.”

  She gulped and straightened up, facing the group. “If we’re all going to travel together, then you deserve to know the truth.”

  “Hear, hear,” Donya said in a mocking tone of voice, but she quieted when Martin shot her a warning look.

  “What truth?” Caleb asked.

  Nadia drew in a shuddering breath and squared her shoulders. “I’m infected with the virus.”

  “What?” Caleb paled while Jed’s eyes narrowed and Josh paled. Only Martin showed no reaction while Donya gloated openly.

  “How’s that even possible?” Caleb asked.

  “I’m a carrier. Months ago, I got bitten by a zombie. At first, I got sick. I thought I was going to die for sure. It was awful.”

  Nadia’s voice was hushed but steady while she spoke, and he’d never felt prouder. He moved up behind her shoulder to lend his silent support.

  “But, I didn’t die. Instead, I got better. It was a miracle. Or so I thought at the time. That night, my boyfriend…he…I kissed him you see, and that night he turned. Everyone died. Everyone except Donya and me.”

  “Don’t forget Harry. He died later, but might still be alive today if it wasn’t for what happened. Everyone died because of her,” Donya said. She pointed an accusing finger at Nadia. “She killed them.”

  “That’s right,” Nadia replied with a lift of her chin. “I killed them. But it wasn’t my fault. I didn’t know, and I would never have hurt them on purpose. You can’t put that on me anymore, Donya. I won’t let you.”

  “Won’t let me?” Donya gasped. “Why you―”

  Martin stepped up and raised his hand. “That’s enough.”

  She glared at him but closed her mouth.

  “Does anyone else have anything to say or ask?” Martin asked.

  Josh shook his head in denial, though he looked intrigued.

  “I do,” Jed said. “So, you’re a carrier but not a zombie. That right?”

  Nadia nodded.

  “Are you dangerous? To us, I mean?”He motioned to everyone gathered.

  “Not if you’re prepared.” Donya laughed at that, but Nadia remained firm. “I’d have to bite or kiss you or get blood in you through a cut or something. As long as you stay away from me, you’ll be safe.”

  “Why didn’t you say something before?” Caleb asked.

  “I couldn’t,” Nadia admitted. “I didn’t want you all to look at me like I’m a monster.”

  They all looked at her in silence until Logan said, “Is that it? Can we get down to business now?”

  Martin nodded and stepped forward again. “Now that you all know about Nadia, is anyone pulling out? I, personally, don’t think it matters. She’s a strong, capable girl, and I’m happy to have her with us.”

  Logan shot Martin an approving look and added, “She’s going nowhere without me, for the record.”

  Jed shrugged and shook his head. “It makes no difference to me. She’s welcome to tag along if she carries her weight.”

  “Fine by me,” Josh added.

  Donya snorted and folded her arms.

  Caleb looked at Nadia for a long moment before he said, “This doesn’t change anything.”

  Logan fought the urge to roll his eyes. “Great. Now that everyone’s had their say, can we get going? Except her, of course.” He pointed at Donya. “She’s made it clear how she feels about Nadia and would only be a liability.”

  “What?” Donya cried. “A liability?”

  “He makes a good point. You have a problem with Nadia, that much is clear. There’s no room on this trip for personal vendettas, despite your words to me earlier.” Martin said.

  Donya pressed her lips together, “I won’t stay. I need to go.”

  “Why?” Logan asked. “Why other than to get your chance at Nadia?”

  “Because I have family there, and I’m hoping to find them.” Donya swallowed, and for the first time looked a little vulnerable. “I know it’s a long shot, but I’m willing to take that chance.”

  Logan let his disbelief show in a sneer. “You expect us to believe that? How convenient.”

  “It’s true.” Nadia surprised them all by speaking up in defense of Donya. “She spoke about her aunt and uncle often enough.”

  Donya didn’t reply but nodded in tight-lipped agreement.

  Martin looked at her. “Are you willing to set aside your troubles with Nadia for the length of the trip?”

  “I am.”

  He turned to Nadia. “Your call.”

  Logan squeezed her shoulder, silently willing her to say no, but in typical fashion, Nadia nodded after a brief moment of hesitation. “She can come.”

  “Then it’s settled,” Martin said. “Now we’ve wasted enough time on this as it is, so let’s get going.”

  “On that, at least, we’re agreed,” Logan said. “Nadia’s with me in the Landie. We’ll follow you.”

  “We’re going in the double cab truck over there, so I can take four. One will have to go with you guys.”

  Caleb opened his mouth, but Logan jumped ahead of him. “Josh, wanna lift?”

  Josh shrugged. “Sure, I’m in.”

  “Great. Throw your gear in the back.”

  With those final words, they loaded up the extra fuel, supplies, and gear Ada had procured for them and set off in silence. Holding the wheel of the Landie again after so long was bliss, and a frisson of excitement rippled down Logan’s spine. Finally. I’m going home.

  Chapter 9 - Michael

  After Rebecca left, Michael stood guard for another hour, watching as dusk turned to night. The light faded at a rapid pace, helped along by thick banks of clouds that rolled across the heavens and obscured the stars. A stiff breeze picked up, and the smell of rain lingered in his nostrils.

  A storm, Michael thought. I wonder what the camp’s up to? Nombali, Dr. Lange.

  Footsteps warned of someone approaching, and he turned. A man he’d seen hanging around Ke Tau before stopped a short distance away and regarded him. He was Indian, his eyes pitch-black and emotionless. Michael thought he remembered his name. Hiran.

  “You’re Michael?”

  “I am.”

  “Ke Tau wants to talk to you.”

  Without saying another word, the stranger turned and strode back the way he came. After a second’s hesitation, Michael followed. They walked toward the barred gates of the compound which stood open a crack, and past the lounging guards. They eyed him with interest, but nobody asked a thing. It was better not to ask too many questions in this place.

  Once through the doors, Michael was hit by a wall of warm air. His skin flushed as blood rose to the surface, while his nostrils flared to pick up the many smells in the air. Sweat, blood, tobacco, and urine. A fetid mixture o
verlaid by the stench of fear and food.

  They walked through the foyer and across the lobby to the old dining room where Ke Tau reigned supreme from the head of a crowded table. The man lounged in his seat, an empty plate in front of him, while around him his men laughed and feasted on the food spread out before them.

  Women moved among the diners carrying food and drink while more pretty young girls hovered in the background. A cloud of tobacco smoke overhung it all and shrouded the figures of the participants.

  Michael’s stomach cramped at the sight of so much food being wasted, and saliva flooded his mouth. He ignored it, though, and edged closer until he was inside Ke Tau’s field of vision before he paused and lowered his head as a sign of respect. It was an emotion he didn’t possess for the ruthless leader but was willing to fake for the sake of the mission. Nothing was more important than the mission. Nothing.

  Hiran moved to the seat on Ke Tau’s right-hand side and sat down. There he took a sip from a glass brimming with amber liquid, his cold eyes still fixed upon Michael.

  “Ah, Michael,” Ke Tau said waving him closer. “Come sit. Eat. You must be hungry.”

  Michael bobbed his head and endeavored to look grateful as he chose an empty spot right on the end of the table closest to the door. “Thank you, Ke Tau. Indeed I am.”

  Ke Tau’s single right eye glittered. “You’re not unhappy with my hospitality, I hope?”

  “Of course not, Great Leader. I’m most thankful.”

  Ke Tau smirked, the jagged scar across his face twisting like a live snake. “Good.”

  Michael cautiously reached for a cup and waited while a woman scurried over to pour an opaque liquid in it. The smell of fermented beer reached his nose, and he fought to keep his expression neutral as he took a sip. The thick, creamy brew had a sour taste to it that he didn’t enjoy but dared not refuse. She placed a plate of food in front of him, meat and bread, before hurrying away once more.

  “So, I hear you wish for a more prominent role in my…” Ke Tau paused for effect, “…Kingdom.”