Melanie knows better than to let impatience get the better of her. She tests each stretch of floorboard before putting her weight on it, acutely aware that even her full weight is nothing compared to Nick's. But if anything feels the least bit spongey or giving, she draws back and tries again. It is slow... but it's also quiet, and that's the most important thing.

When she finally pulls up to the staircase, she leans over and glances up, making sure there's nothing unpleasant waiting for them on the first landing. From what little she can see, the stairwell is clear. She moves past the entryway, planting herself between the hungries and Nick like a tiny sentinel, and motions to him from behind her back. He should take the lead, at least until they've left this specific threat behind them.