Chapter Text
The apocalypse has changed a lot of things, but a lot of things never did change. Like family reunions. Who knew the dead would rise and we would still throw family reunions? They are a little different since some of my family only want to eat my flesh, but there is always family drama. The world is going to shit, but Aunt Cindy still smokes too much and Granny is still calling Heather a $2 whore. Isn't family amazing?
This year, it will be the same. Well except cousin Joey had a mental break down about a month ago and killed his girlfriend because she snored too loud, and Great Aunt Linda got too close when she was feeding Zombie Great Uncle Tony.
I was mixing up a new batch of kool-aid when Cassie pulled up in her truck. She always brings all 7 Zombie kids out in one of those big lion cages on wheels the circus uses, and this year was no different. It was weird at first, but a lot of people keep their zombie family members around. Just not too close. I carefully set the large pitcher on the closest picnic table and greeted her with a hug.
"Hey Addy! How have you been sweet heart?"
"I've been doing okay. I see you brought everyone. How has Jacob been? I heard he lost some fingers!"
Cassie laughed and nodded. "That boy has always been a fighter. Even before the virus. He and Kaytlin got in a tussle over some pork and chicken burger and he wouldn't let go so she just ate it with his fingers still attached!" We both let out a laugh. 10 years ago, this would be morbid and we would be considered psychos for even letting them live. But times are changing. And honestly, I have no idea why.
"I'm going to go get the kid's food and get it ready. Did you hear about Linda?"
"I did. I didn't know her very well. I feel so bad. Do you know if anyone is going to take her and Tony in? I know with Joey being messed up, her daughter can't possibly take them in too."
"Oh I know. Poor Joyce. She lost her grand-baby and I think that's why Joey went off the deep end. But Linda and Tony's son Clark is saying that he wants to take them to the hill and I know Linda didn't want Tony to go until she could go with him."
"Yaa maybe it is time. Tony was one of the first in the family." Cassie shook her head, thinking of the same thing I was. Eventually she will have to take the kids up to the family hill. Even if she isn't the one to put them down, she will have to decide when.
Our silence was broken by arguing. We turned to find the twins fighting over some food and Granny yelling about being quiet. We watched for a few moments before I turned to her.
"Family never changes." We both laughed and headed out separate ways.