Carly raised her eyes and, seeing the aftermath her words caused, was quick to search for reassurances. Hurting Cass wasn’t and would never be a part of the plan again (a little voice in the back of her head whispered reminders about how her parents would react if and when they found out, as well as Carly’s own cowardice). Hurting Cass was the very reason Carly was so hesitant about moving forward. She didn’t want her girlfriend’s family to hold the same disapproval for Cass that Carly’s parents held for her.
“That’s all,” she promised. “I would love to live with you in New York, and not simply because I don’t think I could ever live in a place by myself.” Carly reached out for the blonde’s hand, desperate to avoid messing anything up between them. “Your family tolerates me, or at least that’s the impression I’ve been getting. They don’t talk to me. The only one who greets me in any sort of friendly fashion is Hadley.” She swallowed and managed to come up with some nerve. “I’d like to clear the air with them first, come to some sort of civil understanding if nothing else. We could have a wonderful life together in New York without that cloud hanging over us.”
Mentally she cursed herself for not simply saying yes to avoid putting that hurt look on Cassidy’s face. Her own discomfort was nothing compared to seeing the other woman happy. Lying never came easily, though.
Carly nodded her head and felt her idea was validated. It wasn’t like there were an infinite number of infected constantly trying to beat down the doors, or even wandering by the building. Outside was not as dangerous as it once was. Some would complain about the change, that was to be expected. She would just have to try to not take it personally or feel guilty about it if and when the complaints came rolling in.
The plan brought to mind Peyton and Abram and the animals, and she made a mental note to check in with one or both of them as soon as she was able to find out where they were. People from each safehouse were busy trying to compile lists of those who were alive and those who were dead, but it was a painstakingly slow process. She hoped a visit to each building would give her a chance to locate more familiar faces.
Carly mirrored Cassidy’s expression, worry lines fading as she turned to follow. She laughed at the remark about bananas. “We have some talented cooks here. Bananas could become appetizing again.”
Starter kits. Like those sold in the flower shop she used to work in, except these were for a more practical need. Her face brightened at the suggestion. “We can take them by the army base and hunting lodge first. Gauge the idea amongst family.” As well as take care of their families first. Carly was altruistic, but family always took precedence.
Sydney wasn’t in her bedroll when Carly grabbed her backpack. She asked one of their neighbors to pass along the message that she and Cass were heading out, then followed Cass to the exit.
No zombies were within sight, so she slung her rifle over her shoulder. “Do you see the wheelbarrow anywhere?”