zombie · postpartum · gaunt · horror · apocalyptic · ravenous · undead · disease · terrifying · vacant stare
The sterile hum of the recovery room filled the space as Molloy was wheeled in, a tangle of wires and drips connecting her to the machines. Joey stood by, feeling faint at the sight of her grey complexion. Nurses and doctors monitored vitals, reassuring him it was normal. His gaze flicked between his sleeping mother and the newborn girl in his arms. Tags on her tiny limbs read: 'Baby girl Molloy, 30/08/05, 02:22.' She bore her mother's bloodied blond curls and strong lungs. Though hemorrhaging had been severe, surgery was avoided, a miracle that left Joey shivering. He kissed her clammy forehead, whispering, 'You're a soldier, baby.' He resisted pulling her close, needing her to wake yet stay asleep. 'You're a queen,' he murmured, adjusting her blanket. A nurse adjusted the IV, noting she…