He says the name in his head in an almost affectionate manner, as if “Brian the asshole” was his actual name and not an insult. He looks around more. There is a stack of protein shakes against the counter and a box of protein bars sitting on top of them. One of the tubs has a picture of a body builder on the front label: Gym rat!

He stands and closes his eyes to think for a moment: Even if they are still alive they won’t last much longer. I need to get them out of here. Out of this town… out of my head. They are probably starving by now.

He grabs a handful of protein bars and fills his pockets with them, then stops as the rumble of footsteps starts to build outside.

A swarm must be