Chapter 271

The scorching sun blazed overhead as Aria Bennett lounged lazily on a bench in the rest area, a lollipop dangling from her lips.

"Fall in!"

A crisp male voice rang out. A young officer in tactical gear strode forward, his insignia glinting under the sunlight.

Ronan Caldwell immediately stood at attention. "Sir, we're here to assist with the rescue operation."

Lieutenant Carter's sharp gaze swept over the group, pausing noticeably when it landed on Aria.

"I'm Lieutenant Carter, team leader for this mission," he said firmly. "If you're joining us, you follow orders."

Aria rose leisurely, brushing nonexistent dust off her clothes.

"I'll tag along," she chirped, as if announcing a shopping trip.

Carter's brow furrowed. "This isn't a field trip. It's dangerous."

"Relax~" She waved her lollipop. "I promise not to cause trouble."

Ronan quickly interjected, "Aria's got skills. We'll watch her back."

Skeptical but pressed for time, Carter gave a curt nod.

In the parking lot, two military vehicles stood ready.

"You ride shotgun," Carter pointed to the armored SUV.

Aria's eyes lit up. "Thanks, Lieutenant~"

She hopped in with effortless grace, waving cheerfully at the teammates piling into the truck.

Ezra Vaughn muttered under his breath, "Pretty privilege strikes again..."

The convoy rolled out of the base, navigating the ruins of the city.

"Alert! Zombie horde at three o'clock!"

The walkie-talkie crackled with urgent warnings.

Carter ordered an immediate halt, leading the charge with his squad.

Aria remained obediently in her seat, even helpfully rolling down the window. "Go get 'em~"

[LMAO is Aria here as a cheerleader?]

[Everyone's sweating bullets fighting zombies while she's just snacking]

[Lieutenant Carter: Why did I agree to bring this troublemaker?]

The skirmish ended quickly.

Carter returned panting, accepting the water bottle Aria handed him.

"Thanks." He hesitated. "Maybe... I should have someone escort you back to base?"

Aria blinked innocently. "But I want to help."

"You—" Carter swallowed his words as the walkie-talkie suddenly blared:

"Emergency! Research team trapped in the lab! Immediate extraction required!"

With a resigned sigh, Carter hit the gas.

Aria smiled faintly, unwrapping another lollipop.

The real show was just beginning.