Evolution Day: An American Apocalypse Chapter 2

I assessed my home situation. I'd bought the house a year ago—a 3,000-square-foot villa on five levels: three above ground, two below. It was in a newly developed gated community marketed for its security and environment. Many residents had bought homes here for their families. When I'd renovated, I focused on comfort, not security. The community's security was better than most, keeping out burglars, but against hordes of zombies? That was another story.

I immediately called a renovation company, demanding they maximize my home's security—as high as possible—and complete it by today.

The owner hesitated. "We have other contracts. We might not have time, so if you want it done on schedule..."

"Double the price."

I knew what he wanted. If the job were impossible, he wouldn't have opened the negotiation. He was just angling for more money.

Right now, time was my scarcest resource. Money could solve problems that weren't really problems.

After securing the house, I needed supplies.

Looking at my two basement levels, I decided to fill them completely.

Whatever disaster struck on Independence Day, stockpiling couldn't hurt.

I contacted the largest supermarket chain in Portland and requested to purchase massive quantities of supplies, claiming it was for a livestream giveaway.

First, food—all kinds of non-perishables. After selecting the shelf-stable items, I remembered I'd just converted my lower basement into a cold storage unit. I added fresh meat and produce to the order.

Beyond food, I needed daily essentials.

Anticipating water shortages, I bought disposable plates and utensils to last several years.

My supply list was enough to sustain a family of three for two full years.

The supermarket was thrilled with my order and promised home delivery.

Next, I hit pharmacies, buying a variety of medications.

Thinking of Duke and Cooper, I went to a veterinary clinic and bought years' worth of pet supplies.

For items like motorcycles, mountain bikes, and inflatable boats, I ordered online through same-day local delivery.

Anticipating power outages, I bought five solar generators and five hand-crank generators.

In case TV, phone, and internet went down, I got shortwave radios and walkie-talkies.

For personal safety, I chose a crowbar—more suitable for a woman than a knife.

All afternoon, delivery trucks lined up at my villa.

The security guards were curious but professional. The property management was strict—they verified every delivery, checked for hazards, then let them through.

After the supermarket crew loaded everything into the basement, I finally had time to inspect the security upgrades.