CHAPTER ELEVEN, comfort and cheer
That night Davina managed to sneak out which was much harder now after what happened at the game. There were more guards scattered around Seabrook, but she managed to sneak out into Zombietown, specifically to the Zombie Light Garden and to the hidden passageway that Zed took her to the night of the Zombie Mash. She was thankful she remembered how to get through the maze like hallway to the cozy hideaway room Zed showed her. She was proud of herself for remembering how to navigate the maze-like hallway to the cozy hideaway room. She had been worried she might get lost or be caught, but the familiarity of the path helped her stay focused. was surprised the door was unlocked and even more surprised to find her zombie boyfriend sitting there with his face in his hands, a broken and distraught expression on his face when he looked up at her.
"Davina..." He sighed out, standing up. He had changed out of his uniform and was now wearing comfortable clothes.
They had planned on meeting here, Davina was more so surprised at seeing his expression. "Baby..." She closed the door and crossed the room quickly to him, wrapping her arms around him. He hugged her tightly, his arms snugly wrapped around her. She could feel the tension and sadness in his embrace. She held him close, her heart aching for him. She gently stroked his back, trying to offer some comfort through her touch. Zed clung to her as if she was his lifeline, his shoulders shaking slightly as he fought to keep his emotions in check.
"It's okay," She whispers, her voice trembling. "I'm here. We're going to get through this." It hurt her to see him so vulnerable, but she held her own emotions in check, determined to be his pillar of strength in this moment.
Zed's arms tightens around her, and he buries his face in her shoulder. "I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I tried so hard to fight it, but it was too strong. I'm so sorry."
"It's not your fault," Davina reassures him, pulling back and gently cupping his cheeks. She could see the pain and regret in his eyes, and she wanted nothing more than to take away his pain. Her thumb wipes away a stray tear that had fallen. "Your Z-Band was corrupted, it's not your fault."
Zed nods and presses his forehead against hers, his arms still wrapped around her waist and keeping her close. He didn't want to let her go, afraid that if he did, she would disappear. They stay like that for a moment, simply enjoying each other's presence. The silence is broken by Davina, her voice barely above a whisper. "I love you, Zed."
"I love you, too." His lips found hers easily in a soft, passionate kiss. Davina kissed him back, her arms wrapped around his neck. The kiss is full of emotion, their love for each other flowing through it. They had never been apart before, and the sudden distance was painful. But now, they were together again, and their hearts were finally at peace.
Their lips break away from the kiss and they just hold each other close, their foreheads touching and their eyes closed. The two are just taking a moment to breathe and to just be with each other. Their hearts were racing and beating in unison. It was comforting, being in each other's arms again. Her hands had moved to run through his green hair in an attempt to calm him. It seemed to be working because his tense shoulders had relaxed.
"How's Eliza and Bonzo?" She asked, pulling back and looking at him worriedly.
"They're okay. Upset but okay." Zed mumbles, pulling her back into his embrace and buries his face in her neck, closing his eyes. "I'm sorry...I should've fought harder. I just-"
"Don't, Stop apologizing." Davina says gently, continuing to rub his back comfortingly. "You didn't do anything wrong. You couldn't help what happened. I'm just glad you're safe. It's Seabrook fault. It's their fault for treating you and the other Zombies differently. It's their fault for making you do something for them just to fit in, and then turning their backs when things went wrong. You did your best, and that's all anyone can ask for."
Zed's grip on her tightens as he listened, her words a soothing balm to his troubled mind. He nods against her shoulder, taking comfort in her presence and the unwavering support she offered. "It just feels like everything is so unfair. We're constantly pushed aside, and when we try to make things better, it feels like the world just slams us back down."
"I know, baby." Davina says softly, her voice filled with empathy. "But we're not alone in this. We have each other, and we have to believe that change is possible. We can't let them define who we are or what we're capable of."
Zed pulls back slightly, looking into her eyes with a mixture of gratitude and sadness. "Sweetheart, how do you stay so strong? I feel like I just don't know if I can keep going sometimes."
Davina looks into his eyes with unwavering resolve. "Because I believe in us. I believe in what we have together. I know that despite all the challenges and the unfairness, we have the power to change things. We have each other, and that's something worth fighting for. Even when things seem impossible, knowing that we have each other makes me strong."
Zed's eyes glistens with a mix of gratitude and admiration as he took in Davina's words. The warmth and sincerity in her voice gave him a sense of hope he desperately needed. He reaches up and gently brushes a strand of hair from her face, his touch tender and affectionate. "You really believe we can make a difference?" He asked softly, his voice filled with a blend of hope and skepticism.
Davina nods firmly, her eyes never leaving his as her heart flutters at his sweet action. "I do. I believe that if we stand together, support each other, and keep fighting for what's right, we can make things better. It won't be easy, and it won't be quick, but it's worth the effort. We've already made so much progress just by being here for each other."
Zed's expression softens, and he leans in to rest his forehead against hers once more. "I'm so lucky to have you in my life, Davina. You give me strength when I feel like I have none."
She smiles warmly, her heart swelling with affection. "And I'm lucky to have you. We're stronger together, and we'll get through this. I promise. C'mon, let's sit down." She murmurs, slowly guiding him to the makeshift bed that had been put in the room. "We should rest. It's been a long night."
He nodded and he sat down first, gently tugging her and pulling her on his lap. Davina let out a surprised yelp, her face flushing as she found herself on his lap. Zed chuckled and kissed her cheek, his arms wrapping around her waist and keeping her close. She couldn't help but blush, her heart fluttering at the affection. She curled up in his arms, not minding sitting on his lap. In fact, she liked it a lot. She just didn't expect it.
"I missed you so much," Zed murmurs, nuzzling her cheek. "I was worried about you. I'm so glad you're safe."
"I'm okay," She says, turning to press a gentle but loving kiss to his jaw. "I was worried about you more than anything. I'm just glad we're together again."
"Me too." He mumbled. His arms tightened around her and he laid down, gently tugging her with him.
Davina curled up against him, her head resting on his chest and her arms wrapped around him. She could hear his heart beating, and it was the most soothing sound in the world. He was here, he was alive, and he was safe. They were together again, and that's all that mattered. They stayed like that for a while, just enjoying the peace and quiet of their small sanctuary. The tension from earlier was slowly melting away as they shared this moment of calm. Davina traced gentle patterns on his chest, trying to soothe him the best she could. One of his hands were running through her hair, the other arm was wrapped around her waist and his other hand was holding hers.
"We'll figure this out, babe." She speaks up softly. "Somehow. We'll find a way to make things right."
Zed looks down at her, his eyes filled with gratitude and affection, using a new pet name that makes her blush. "Thank you, baby. For everything. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Davina smiles fondly up at him, her heart swelling with love as butterflies swarm in her stomach at his gaze and his words. "You don't have to find out. I'm here. We'll face this together."
As they sat together in the soft glow of the fairy lights, a sense of determination began to settle over them. Despite the challenges ahead, they knew they had each other. And with that unwavering support, they felt ready to confront whatever the future held.
****
It was the day of the Cheer Championship and the town had went to support the cheer squad at the Regional Cheer Championship where different cheer squads compete against each other. Davina didn't really know much or really anything about cheerleading, but she supported her friends. Davina hated that Zed and the rest of the zombies were forced to go back to zombie school. It was so unfair and not right. Zed deserved better, all of the zombies did.
The stands were packed with supporters, the cheering and chanting loud. Davina stood in the stands by Addison, Beckett, and Bree. Addison didn't bother with a wig, letting her white hair be shown despite her parents disapproval. Davina was proud of her for standing up for herself and showing her true self, just as she had done. The energy in the stadium was electric, but Davina's mind was elsewhere, thinking about Zed and the injustice that had been done to him and the other zombies. She couldn't shake the anger and frustration that simmered inside her. The cheer squads performed their routines, each one trying to outshine the others. But Davina found it hard to focus on the performances. Her thoughts kept drifting back to Zed, Eliza, Bonzo, and the unfair treatment they had received. She knew she had to do something, but she wasn't sure what.
Bree gasps, beaming at the sight of the cheer squads preforming. "I've always dreamed of cheering here, just...Soaring in the air as the crowd roared. Flying higher than anyone's ever flown." She dreamingly said. But then she frowns and looks down at the floor. "That was a stupid dream."
Davina frowns, sharing a sad look with Addison and Beckett. "No, you will fly." Addison assures Bree. "Someday. As soon as this town gets over itself." She chuckled along with Bree, who sent her a thankful smile.
"I thought your parents didn't want you out in public with your real hair." Bree realized, looking at her friend with worry.
"They don't. But they can't make me hide it anymore. I'm not leaving this seat. No way." Addison firmly said, determination and confidence filling her tone. "My dad's whole patrol couldn't get me out of this seat." She grinned, crossing her arms.
Her friends smile at her, but Beckett's gaze is more of admiration and awe. His hand had found hers and was holding it, giving it a squeeze. Addison felt her cheeks heat up, her heart skipping a beat at his action. She squeezes his hand back, a shy smile on her lips. She didn't let go though, and neither did he. Davina smiled fondly at them. She was glad they were working things out and being more open about their feelings for each other. She just hoped they would get a chance to act on them and actually admit their feelings for each other.
"I'm glad you're finally showing off your hair, Addy" Davina said with a smile. "It's beautiful."
"Thanks, D. I'm glad you like it." Addison replies with a bright smile. "Are you okay?" She asked softly, concern evident in her voice.
"Not really, but I'll be fine." Davina sighs. "I just hate how the zombies are treated." She muttered. She pauses as she recognizes some voices she heard nearby. She looks around and then looks over the railing of the stands they're on, surprised to see Zed and Bonzo standing there, talking to each other. Something about stopping Eliza from doing something. Eliza was there too? She looks back at the others. Upon hearing a familiar voice, Davina looks over the railing of the bleachers, eyes widening at seeing Zed and Bonzo talking nearby. Talking about Eliza being there somewhere, but having trouble finding her.
"Hey, guys, I'll be right back."
"Where are you going?" Beckett questioned, furrowing his eyebrows.
"Zed is here with Bonzo. I'm going to go talk to them." Davina replied before hurrying off the bleachers. She followed Zed and Bonzo, finding them near the panel that was used for the lights and music. That must be how Eliza was going to sabotage Cheer Championship.
"Ruining the Cheer Championship is only gonna prove their worst fears that zombies are monsters." Zed told Eliza.
Davina speaks up, revealing herself as she walks over to them. "I don't think anything can change their stupid minds at this point. A lot of 'em are idiots."
Zed's head shot up, his eyes widening as he saw her. "Davina! What are you doing here?" His face brightened when he saw her, smiling wide when she smiled at him and intertwined their hands together, giving his a gentle squeeze.
"Well, I can't just stand by and do nothing. Eliza, honestly, you're really brave and a lot of people wouldn't have the guts to stand up like this." Davina praised.
Eliza smiles, surprised and flattered by her words. "Really? Wow, thanks. I knew I liked you." She grinned, earning a grin back from Davina.
"But Zed is also right. If you do this, it will just make things worse. You guys are better than that." Davina continued. She smiled at them and they all smiled back at her. Her heart fluttered when Zed squeezed her hand and leaned over to kiss her cheek.
"Seabrook's up next!"
They're startled by the sudden voice and look over to see Bree smiling at them and waving at them before she went back to sit on the bleachers. Davina shared a smile with the others and went back to the bleachers to check out Seabrook's cheer squad. She had heard that Bucky was kicking off anyone who wasn't anti zombie and that was a lot of people so she didn't really have high hopes that they would win. Though she could care less since she didn't like cheerleading.
"Put your hands together for our defending champions, a team that needs no introduction..."
"But since we're doing it anyway, it might as well be overblown and flashy." Another judge interrupted the first one, who looked annoyed by him. "Here are the almighty, outta-sighty, Seabrook Shrimp that are mighty!"
Davina was right. There wasn't as nearly as many people on the cheer squad now that Bucky had gotten rid of anyone who still liked the zombies. Soon enough it went down hill. Cheerleaders lost balance, some almost dropping someone. Eliza smirks. "The sweetest type of sabotage, self sabotage."
Davina chuckles, shaking her head and leaning back against the railing of the bleachers by her, her hand still intertwined with Zed's. The crowd began laughing at Seabrook's cheer squad as they continued to mess things up. "Seconds in and Seabrook is literally falling apart." One judge announced.
"Get off the stage, Bucky!" Someone shouted as everyone started booing. By this point, the cheer squad had stopped and backed away, not sure what to do.
"Oh, there seems to be technical difficulties with Seabrook's audio track." A judge explained suddenly.
Suddenly a little girl ran up to the mat with pom poms. She wore a pink jacket with her hood up, but Davina spotted the green pig tails underneath. Her eyes widen. "Zoey." She looks up at Zed beside her with surprise. "Zed, isn't that your little sister?"
Zed looks at her with confusion and looks back at the mat, his eyes widening in realization. "Let's go, Seabrook Cheer!" Zoey shouted after taking her hood off.
"Get off the stage, zombie!" Someone in the crowd exclaimed.
Beckett scoffs and glances at Addison by him. "The fact someone is okay with yelling at a little girl is appalling."
Addison nods. "Agreed." She muttered in agreement. She then noticed Bree with Davina, Zed, Eliza, Bonzo, and some other zombies by the bleachers. Zoey continued to cheer despite everyone booing.
"I wanna be her when I grow up." Davina grinned, looking over at her boyfriend. Zed chuckled, squeezing her hand and shaking his head.
"What is she doing?" Bree asked with surprise.
"She's changing things...By Cheering." Addison realized with a smile. She and Beckett had joined the others as they watched what happened.
"But that's not how change works." Eliza comments. "You can't just change things with one person and a pair of pom-poms."
"Yeah, you're right. It's gonna take more than just one person. It's gonna take all of us." Addison smiled at the group.
"Like they'll ever see us as normal." Eliza scoffed.
"Who would want to be normal?" Davina asks. "Normal is boring."
"Exactly, we're not normal." Zed agreed.
"And they need to see that. Zombies celebrate their differences. So let's go out there and celebrate. Cheer Championship style." Addison suggested.
"You guys in?" Zed questioned, smiling at the group. Bonzo spoke in zombie tongue with a grin.
"I don't like cheerleading, but I love you." Davina replied, smiling up at Zed and wrapping her arms around him. Zed smiled fondly at her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
"I love you too." He murmured.
"So, this is our revolution?" Eliza inquired.
"Yeah, this is our revolution." Addison nodded with a smile.
"Okay, but does it have to be cheer though?" Eliza frowned.
"I agree with her." Davina sighed.
Addison scoffs, smiling at the two and shaking her head. "Come on."
The group walks out onto the mat and over to Bucky and the cheer squad. "Bucky...Things can change." Zed started.
"Look, change is happening, Bucky. And we're not going away." Eliza tells Bucky. "So you can either fight us and lose...Or you can be a part of it."
Bucky is quiet for a moment, glancing around the group. Davina honestly thought maybe he would try to stop them. She was surprised when he took his whistle off and handed the necklace to his cousin. "I can't."
Addison sighs. "I guess we need a new captain."
Davina grins, sharing a look with Addison and then Zoey before they look at Zed. He then realized what they were thinking and he grins. He then leans over as if he's in a football huddle and everyone follows his lead. "Alright, here's the plan. We're gonna let out freak flags fly."
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