"I know. I highly doubt the zombies were offering assistance." He lapsed into silence then, aware that he'd probably pushed her too far. It wasn't intended to be a joke---now wasn't the time---but a sad comment on their lot.

"Right. Hey...while I'm here, is there anything I can help you with?" Billy's gaze is on the half-broken equipment, trying to puzzle out its mysteries with a glance. He hoped he could compensate for his tactlessness by working.