Point Blank

"You're late."

"Just let me in. It's dark and I'm tired of this rain."

"Where were you?"

"Don't do this. Just let me in."

"You know the rules. I can't make an exception for you. Where were you?"

"Fine. We got sidetracked, alright? Everyone is here and accounted for so you can relax."

"What happened?"

"One of the kids ran off. Thought they were being real cute and funny. At least until it started to rain... Worked herself up into quite a frenzy. But we found her and here we are. Now let me in."

"Did you see any?"

"Just two a few miles back. They must have caught on to the girl - she was making a real racket before we finally caught up with her. Hell, I'm surprised she didn't draw out the whole horde."

"Why didn't any of the others report this?"

"They didn't notice them. They were so happy to finally find the girl that they weren't paying attention, so I backtracked to make sure we weren't being followed. They have no idea they were ever so close. I figured she was traumatized enough - didn't need to have months of nightmares on top of it all."

"Did you make contact?"

"I took care of the situation. Can't we finish this inside? I'm freezing out here."

"Look at me and answer the question."

"Don't do this. We're safe."

"I'll only ask once more. Did you make contact?"

"Yes."

"You know the rules. Why weren't you more careful?"

"...I guess I was just too distracted. But it's not a big deal, okay? I feel fine. The others all had symptoms by now. I'm fine."

"You're cold."

"It’s pouring out here!"

"It's not the rain and you know it. You're flushed. …Why did you come back here? You know the rules. No exceptions. You're a liability now."

“I saved their lives!"

"And now I'm saving all of ours. I'm sorry... I'd want you to do the same thing. You know it has to be done."

"That doesn't make it any easier."

"Easier than the alternative. You won't feel a thing. I promise."

"Just do it! Spare me the clichés. Anything’s gotta be better than this... this hellhole anyway. And make sure you do it right - because your ass'll be the first one I come for."

"Please! Even in death I'm way out of your league."

"Seriously: watch over them. Be safe."

"I will. See you on the other side."