Intimacy

The dimly lit laboratory enveloped me in an atmosphere of hushed introspection. After a day filled with experiments and the lingering memory of that electrifying kiss with Jazmen, I felt a deep desire to understand her more intimately.

Jazmen and I decided to place our makeshift beds side by side, a silent testament to the bond we were forging in this perilous world. As I settled onto my narrow bench, bathed in the soft, wavering glow of moonlight, my gaze drifted to Sage. The curiosity in her eyes mirrored my own thoughts.

"You know, Jazmen," I began, "we've faced these challenges together, and yet, there's so much about each other that remains a mystery."

Her inquisitive gaze met mine, and a flicker of anticipation danced in her eyes. "You're right. We've shared this harrowing time, but we've barely scratched the surface of our pasts."

A soft chuckle escaped my lips as I began to reveal my own history. "I was raised by a single mother. She was a remarkable woman, always shouldering the weight of the world for us. Even as a child, I could see how cumbersome it was for her to raise me alone and... I haven't contacted her since the outbreak began. I don't know if she's still out there, fighting the infection, or..."

Jazmen's eyes brimmed with empathy, and she reached out to touch my hand. "I'm so sorry, Apex. That must be incredibly tough."

I nodded, my gaze drifting to the ceiling as I continued, "It is, Jazmen. But it also instilled in me the determination to survive and keep pushing forward."

Jazmen's eyes sparkled with admiration. "You've shown remarkable strength, Apex."

A smile touched my lips, and I turned the conversation toward Jazmen's own past. "What about you, Jazmen? What's your story?"

Jazmen hesitated briefly, then began to share her history. "I came from a well-to-do family. My parents had high expectations for me, and I always felt the pressure to excel. From a young age, I demonstrated an aptitude for academics and a talent for solving complex problems. I aspired to discover something truly extraordinary and make a name for myself in the world of science before all of this happened."

I marveled at her brilliance and the drive that had led her to that moment. "You're truly exceptional, Jazmen. Your intellect and determination shine brightly."

A modest smile graced Jazmen's lips. "Thank you. But sometimes, I wonder if all my achievements truly matter in a world like this."

Our conversation ebbed into a contemplative silence, and Jazmen's fingers brushed against mine, offering comfort and connection. "Sometimes, our paths change, and we must adapt," she said softly. "But it doesn't mean we've lost ourselves. We're survivors, and that makes us stronger in its own way."

I met her understanding gaze with a sense of gratitude. "You're absolutely right, Jazmen. We've found a unique connection amidst this chaos, something I treasure."

Our conversation shifted to lighter topics—childhood memories, humorous anecdotes, and the joy of recalling simpler times before the world had plunged into darkness. Laughter rippled through the laboratory, a rare and precious sound in these troubled times.

As the night deepened, our laughter gradually subsided, giving way to a tranquil silence. In that stillness, I couldn't help but reach out to Jazmen, my voice laced with a hint of flirtation. "You know, Jazmen" I whispered, my breath caressing her ear, "there's something about this moment, the way the moonlight paints your features and... your curves, it's incredibly captivating."

Jazmen's cheeks flushed, her eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that sent my heart racing. "And what, pray tell, do you find captivating about it, Apex?"

Leaning in, my lips brushed against her earlobe as I replied, "The fact that even in the darkest of times, I can't help but be drawn to you, Jazmen. Your brilliance and the way you make me feel alive in this world of chaos."

Our flirtatious banter continued, each word carrying a current of desire and connection that seemed to electrify the air around us. In that moment, amidst the serious talk and shared stories, our hearts danced to a different tune, one that spoke of longing and the promise of something more.

At some time deep in the night my hand subconsciously found its way to her cheek, my thumb gently tracing her skin. Leaning in, our lips met in a slow, intense kiss that transcended words, conveying the depth of our affection.

Our hearts raced as our mouths melded together, each sensation and emotion amplified by the knowledge of our shared journey. It was a kiss filled with longing and desire, a silent promise of something more.

After a moment that felt both eternal and fleeting, we pulled away, our breaths mingling as we locked eyes. Words were unnecessary; our kiss had conveyed everything we needed to say.

With a tender smile, I whispered, "Goodnight, Jazmen."

Jazmen's voice was equally soft as she replied, "Goodnight, Apex."

We lay side by side, the quiet laboratory surrounding us, our intertwined destinies continuing to unfold. In this world marred by darkness and uncertainty, the bond between us deepened, offering a glimmer of hope and solace amid the chaos.

---

I awoke to an empty space beside me, Jazmen's absence in our laboratory indicated she must be using the bathroom. My mind briefly wandered to thoughts of her silhouette behind the shower curtain, but I quickly shook my head and refocused.

Resisting the temptation of morning arousal in such close quarters was a challenge. I stayed put until my brother finally settled down, then decided to act.

Approaching the bound zombie, I inspected its partially healed arms and legs. It struggled against the restraints, determined to free itself. Without hesitation, I took an iron rod and methodically shattered its knees and elbows. The sounds were unsettling, but I couldn't afford to leave any weaknesses unchecked, a lesson I learned during our initial scuffle.

Just as I worked on the zombie, I heard the bathroom door open, and Jazmen, clad only in her bra and panties, emerged. Her curvaceous figure commanded my attention, and she seemed taken aback and disturbed by my gaze.

Sensing her discomfort, she retreated back into the bathroom and asked about the noise. "What was that sound?"

I cleared my throat awkwardly and explained, "I was concerned the zombie might break free, so I had to break its joints again. Its bones were almost fully healed."

Jazmen's voice revealed her relief mixed with annoyance, "I got so scared. I thought the zombies had broken through the door and the bench barricade. You're such an idiot."

She said before emerging from the bathroom, now dressed in a white scientist's coat and the same black pants she'd been wearing for the past two days.

Unable to resist, I complimented her, "And you're such a beauty."

She rolled her eyes, clearly irritated. "Why are you always flirting?"

I shrugged, unapologetic. "I told you last night, I'll keep trying until you agree."

Jazmen shot back with a mischievous grin, "Yeah? Let's see how long you can resist not forcing the issue. I'm practical, remember? It might be better if you just force me to it."

I hesitated, considering her challenge. "That's... not fun," I replied before stepping into the bathroom.