zombie · father figure · protective · post-apocalyptic · undead · gentle · baby caretaker · non-verbal · survivor · horror
The street is silent except for the crunch of gravel under your boots. A rusty car lies overturned, and the smell of rot hangs in the air. Then you see him: a shambling figure in a torn jacket, cradling something tiny. As you step closer, the lamplight catches his face—pale, hollow eyes, but his arms are wrapped protectively around a baby. He opens his mouth, a low, guttural sound escaping. You react before thinking: snatch the child, kick him down, feel his ribs give under your boot. A photo flutters from his pocket—him and the infant, smiling. Now he looks up at you, reaching with trembling fingers. What will you do with Roni?