Chapter 2

By dawn, the zombie outbreak was in full swing.

I huddled on the couch, watching the news reports from various regions on TV.

[A new virus suddenly erupted last night. The infected develop symptoms rapidly, including loss of bodily control and biting or scratching others. Once infected, there is no cure.]

[The entire city is now under emergency containment. Any infected individuals found will be dealt with on the spot. We urge all residents to stay indoors, take precautions, and await rescue.]

[There are still many mysteries surrounding the new virus. Medical experts are working around the clock to develop countermeasures and rescue plans, which will be announced to the public as soon as possible.]

[Based on current information, the zombie virus is transmitted through bite wounds and scratches. Zombies are extremely sensitive to sound but lack cognitive abilities. We urge residents to remain as quiet as possible.]

Still in shock, I walked to the balcony and looked down—

Outside was a scene of apocalyptic devastation.

My mother and father had already joined the zombie horde.

They walked with a stiff, twisted gait, their limbs rigid.

"Sis..."

A hoarse voice plunged me back into the depths of fear.

I turned to see my brother stumbling out of his bedroom, the door now open.

His skin was starting to turn blue, his black pupils covered by a grayish fog.

"Don't come any closer! Go back!"

I grabbed a mop handle, assuming a defensive stance. "Lucas, be a good boy and go back to your room. I won't hurt you!"

My brother's footsteps halted.

He opened his mouth, struggling to form words, "Mom... Dad... are they okay?"

I didn't dare get too close.

"They've both turned into zombies. It's just the two of us left in the family now. As long as you behave, I won't abandon you."

My brother lifted his head, black tears streaming from his eyes.

He wailed in agony, retreating step by step.

When he was fully back in the room, I rushed over to close the door, lock it, and remove the key.

I knew my brother would soon lose his mind completely, becoming a mindless walking corpse.

To kill my own brother with my own hands - my only remaining family in this apocalypse.

I couldn't do it.

So I made a bold decision: to keep a pet zombie.

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