The Bitter Bind

SCENE 1

Barricaded Living Room

Evening, dim living room, windows boarded, furniture barricading the door, flickering candlelight — Jamie crouches by the window, peering outside, while Aunt Rosa stares at him from the shadows, tension thick between them

SCENE 2

Rosa’s Descent

Dark hallway, cracked linoleum, aunt’s silhouette looming against a swaying overhead bulb — Aunt Rosa clutches her arm, sweat streaking her face, as she stares into the shadows, a small trickle of blood at her mouth

SCENE 3

Uncle’s Warning

Small cluttered kitchen, lantern casting long shadows on peeling wallpaper, Luis sits at the table clutching a battered shotgun — Uncle Luis gazes between Jamie and Maggie, jaw clenched, worry creasing his brow under the harsh lantern light

SCENE 4

Child’s Terror

Narrow staircase, moonlight seeping through broken window, Maggie huddled against the bannister gripping her teddy bear — Maggie’s tear-streaked face glows in the pale blue moonlight, as her wide eyes reflect a zombie’s hand clawing at the door behind her

SCENE 5

Betrayal at the Basement

Basement door, half open, darkness within flickering with lantern light, Jamie bracing himself against Rosa’s looming shadow — Aunt Rosa lunges at Jamie, veins bulging, rage and infection twisting her features, as Jamie reels back in horror against the frame

SCENE 6

Glimmer of Escape

Back porch, door cracked, dawn barely breaking, silhouettes ready to flee, zombies massed at the fence — Jamie holds Maggie close as Uncle Luis gestures urgently toward the narrow alley beyond, fear and hope etched on their faces