131 Reflection

Richard looked into Lisa's tear-streaked face, her accusation echoing in his ears. He took a deep breath, searching for the right words to explain the situation. The grief in her eyes was palpable, and he knew that no explanation could fully ease her pain.

"Lisa," Richard began. "I did everything within my power to ensure your safety and that of your squad. We didn't anticipate a mutated zombie in your area of operation. The intelligence we had suggested was clear."

Lisa's gaze hardened, her voice trembling with emotion. "But there was one, Richard! Denise, Angela, Ella… they're gone because of it!"

Richard felt the weight of each name, a heavy burden on his heart. "I know, and I'm so sorry," he said earnestly. "These mutated zombies, they're unpredictable. It wasn't supposed to happen."

Lisa looked away, her body shaking with sobs. "Do you think your sorry would bring them back, brother?"