No matter what

There was only one rule: don't open the door—a simple rule. I did not find it difficult to follow, but for some reason or another the tall, burly, bearded guard felt the need to repeat it twice to me.

"Are you listening to me boy?" he hissed. "I don't have time to go over this twice if you're not listening."

"Yes, Captain Rivers!" Standing at full attention I faced him and repeated the rule."Do not open the door." Captain Rivers sucked his teeth and rolled some unknown object around inside of his mouth.

A large red door to the containment unit was at the end of the hallway. I knew what was behind the door, and why it was important never to open.

The women.

I'd only known one woman, but I heard all the stories about some strange chemical released 10 years ago, that only affected the XX chromosome. This chemical turned every woman into a zombie-like creature that only craved the flesh of men.  

I remember when they came. When she came.

Captain Rivers slowed.

"Alright son. This is where I leave you. Now remember, they will talk to you, entice you, and promise you everything. Remember the rule and you will survive the night." He dropped his heavy hand on my shoulder and gave it a tight squeeze.  

No sooner than he left I heard them. Their voices sounded like the sweetest harmony I had ever heard. They cooed and begged me to open the door. They were pleading with seduction and honey in their voices only for a chance to prove to me that they were OK. I turned my back on the door. ONE RULE. I reminded myself. The harmonies stopped and a voice called out to me.

"Ethan. Please free me."

"Mom?"