#also shane could be the lonely i guess? if we are reaching enough

[wheezeasfuck]

ever since i saw that video on tiktok saying that ryan and shane are the eye avatars i literally CANNOT stop thinking about bfu and tma crossover, it’s so outlandish but it’s also not and i love it

[batterycityghoul]

Stay (Shane Walsh/Reader)

Summary: You think you’re saving yourself by leaving the group, but when Shane tracks you down, you realize you needed him all along. 

Word Count: 2.7k

Author’s Note: I meant for this to be a drabble, but it did not turn out that way. :/

Masterlist / Read on AO3

You didn't realize you were planning on leaving the group until you were already gone.  

It seemed like the group was constantly falling apart. First Merle went missing, presumed dead, which wasn't such a huge loss in your opinion. But then the group just kept losing people. Amy and Jim were lost to walkers while Morales decided to take his family and try their luck somewhere else. Jacqui opted out and Sophia was lost in the woods. And then Carl got shot.  

The only thing the group seemed to have gained was Rick Grimes and you weren't entirely convinced that it was an even trade.  

You were tired of losing the people you were starting to consider family. Surviving with the group was one thing, but you had become entwined in their lives as well. You knew Carl's favorite color and that Daryl wasn't a big fan of small-talk, but he seemed to enjoy someone's silent presence while he dressed and skinned the results of a successful day's hunt. You knew Glenn was in love with Hershel’s eldest daughter and that T-Dog secretly hated green peas.  

You were becoming invested in their lives, but you didn’t know how much longer those lives would last. Death seemed to literally be around every corner, just waiting to snatch away someone else with greedy fingers and hungry moans.

You couldn't stomach watching Carol fall apart every night since the fate of her daughter was unknown. Add to that watching Carl, the kid who usually had a smile for everyone in the group, pale and defenseless from a gunshot wound, and you just couldn't take it anymore. You didn't want to watch the group divide and splinter with each passing day. You had reached your limit.  

So, while you didn't mean to leave, it ended up being what you needed.  

You told the group you were going for a walk and by the time you noticed you were a couple of miles away from the Greene farm, you realized you had no intention of turning back.  

It was oddly freeing to know the only person you had to count on now was yourself. If you died, then that was your fault. If you were killed, then there would be no one to mourn you. You were cutting ties and saving yourself and the group any potential emotional damage.  

You knew it was selfish to just wander off and never come back. You knew they would assume you were dead or worse. But you couldn't keep forging bonds just to have them get abruptly cut off every time the group faced a problem.  

It took you a while to adapt. You had been lucky enough to leave with a machete and a hunting knife for protection. You had learned enough from watching Daryl that you could catch something to eat if you had to, but you had to admit that your supplies were running alarmingly low.  

The backpack you had taken with you only had half a salvaged bottle of water and a granola bar. You didn't want to have to scavenge, but you knew it was your only option. You couldn't risk letting hunger or dehydration weaken you when you were constantly fearing and fighting for your life.  

You lucked out by finding an abandoned convenience store on an otherwise desolate stretch of highway. You were sure you would be able to spot any walkers around for miles and if you were really lucky, then you could get in and out without any problems.  

You made sure to keep your knife at the ready as you did a quick perimeter check. You couldn't shake the feeling that something was just the slightest bit off and while you knew you should probably listen to your gut instinct to leave, you couldn't really afford another night with minimal water and food.  

You were glad to see that the store wasn't picked clean. You found a few sports drinks and canned items to add to your collection of supplies. There was an itch just under your skin that warned you to hurry up, so you quickly swiped a few candy bars from the meager offerings. It was as you were closing up your backpack that you heard it.  

The sound of shuffling footsteps.

And they were heading right for you.  

You lowered your backpack to the floor and whirled around, ready to kill the walker creeping up on you.

You thought you would be greeted with the sight of decaying flesh and starving, grasping fingers. Instead, you were surprised to see...

"Shane? What the hell are you doing here?"

Shane offered you a rueful grin, his hands up to show he wasn't a threat. "Well, I'm not a tracker like Dixon, but I did alright, didn't I?"

You frowned at him, your hand slowly lowering so you weren't quite pointing your knife in his direction. "Why were you tracking me in the first place?"

Shane shrugged his shoulders before he feigned interest in the shelf next to him. He reached out to pick up a lone packet of ramen and studied it. "You were one of the only ones with any damn sense. I figured if you were making a run for it, then I might as well find out why."

You shook your head, not knowing what to think. You had never really been close to Shane, but you appreciated what he brought to the group. He was a bit too ruthless, but you knew he would do absolutely anything to protect the people he cared about. That protection always covered the group to an extent, but you noticed only a few people seem to be the main focus of it.  

"What about Carl?" You couldn't help but wonder, taking note of his grimace. "And Lori? Rick?"

Shane let out a humorless chuckle, reaching up to rub the back of his neck. "Seems like I wasn't going to be missed all that much for at least a few days. So, I reckoned I'd come after you."

You quirked an eyebrow at him before finally reaching for your backpack on the floor. "How'd you know I wasn't dead?"

"You’re smarter than that, Y/N," Shane pointed out with a smirk. "I gave you the benefit of the doubt."

"Thanks," you muttered before you brushed past him. "You've seen I'm alive for yourself, so you can head back to the farm now."

"Thought I'd stick around for a bit," Shane offered as he moved to follow you. "Came here on foot and it was a long journey. I'm not too eager to make it again."

You glanced at him over your shoulder before you sighed. The reason you left the group was so that you wouldn't have to worry about anyone else. With Shane here, you could already feel that persistent need to make sure he was safe creeping back in.  

When you got outside, you noticed Shane stop briefly to scoop up a duffel bag, before he followed after you. "So, you got a plan? Know where you're going?"

"Not at all," you answered honestly as you glanced around to make sure you weren't going to be surprised by any walkers.  

You heard Shane huff out an amused breath, but he dutifully followed you when you took off in the direction of the woods on the other side of the highway.  

You kept expecting Shane to leave. He had checked on you, made sure you were fine, so why was he still sticking around?

As days passed and you got used to having Shane around every hour of the day and night, you started to realize a few things about him.  

He had a devious nature about him, but he was also kind and caring. He seemed to notice little things that you would have never thought important. He fully expected for you to take care of yourself, but he always had your back. He was playful and all-too-serious in turns, but he never made you feel like you couldn’t trust him.

You weren't sure when it happened, but you found yourself looking forward to nightfall. With walkers around, night could mean low visibility and lethal surprises, but it also meant you got to see a softer side of Shane.  

Instead of spending your nights fearing the dead, you found a solace in Shane you had never experienced before. He seemed to unwind when it was just the two of you in the quiet of the night.  

Whenever a chill swept in, you would risk a small fire for warmth. You would sit huddled together, seeking heat from the fire and each other, and Shane would talk.  

He told you about his former days as a sheriff's deputy. He recounted tales from his days in high school when he would prank his principal or get into trouble with Rick. He confessed to his affair with Lori and how it tore him up to be away from Carl. He told you about his slow falling out with most of the group in the days after your departure.  

Hearing his voice in the otherwise silent night was what started to carry you through the day.  

You started craving his company during those quiet, intimate moments when it started to truly feel like you were the last two people alive.  

You assumed Shane still planned on going back to the group. It didn't seem to matter to him that the both of you were traveling farther away from the Greene farm. He missed Carl and was still pining away for Lori. Of course he was going to go back to them. How could you possibly compare?

It didn't take you long to realize you would miss him when he finally decided to leave you.

There was a day, only a couple of weeks after Shane found you, when it seemed like there was a group of walkers everywhere you turned.  

"Must be getting close to a city," Shane guessed as he reached up to wipe the sweat from his brow. He frowned at the grime and dried walker blood on his arms. "We should find somewhere to wash up."

You quirked an eyebrow at him, silently challenging him to find you a place to take a decent bath. With no home base, it wasn't like you had steady access to a water source. You got so desperate just a week ago that you bathed during a downpour and pretended it was a shower. It made you miss the few moments you got to enjoy the relative comfort and safety of the CDC before Jenner blew it up.  

"Come on," he coaxed as he nodded a bit off the path. "Bet I can find us some place before it gets too late."

You frowned up at the slowly darkening sky before you conceded with a sigh.  

To your delight, Shane managed to lead you towards a small creek.  

"It's not much, but it'll do the job," Shane said before he started to strip out of his shirt. You noticed he kept his underwear on once he took off for the water. He had a bar of soap in one hand and your machete in the other as he carefully stepped around rocks and twigs. "Come on, Y/N. Not much daylight left to find us a shelter," he reminded you before he waded into the water.  

You couldn't help but watch him for a moment before you sighed and made sure you couldn't spot any walkers. You were always worried they would catch you at your most vulnerable moment and stripped down to just your underwear with only Shane to back you up seemed like a bad idea. But, you realized as you stepped cautiously into the water, you trusted Shane with your life. If he thought it was a good idea, then you were going to take him at his word.  

You heard Shane chuckle and when you glanced up, it was to notice he was considering you from just a few feet away.  

"Come on, girl. It's not like I'm gonna bite. You've been getting pretty rank these past couple of days. You need to wash off more than I do."

You caught the smirk on his face and the way his eyes twinkled with mirth.  

"Fuck you, Shane," you muttered before you glanced down to the water circling your thighs. You tipped your head back up to look at him, raising an eyebrow, before you slowly reached down to cup some water in your hands.  

"Oh, no you don't, girl," Shane quipped as he took a few steps away from you. "Don't even think about it."

You couldn't help the pleased grin on your face as you flung the water in his direction. It didn't quite have the impact you wanted, but it seemed to set off a few carefree moments with Shane in which you both splashed each other relentlessly with water.  

Shane finally conceded defeat when you managed to catch him off-guard and dunk him under the water.  

"Uncle, uncle," Shane cried when he resurfaced. He spat out a mouthful of water and shook his head. "You've got a mean streak to you, do you know that?"

"I was the youngest kid," you told him as you finally moved to scrub off the dirt clinging stubbornly to your arms. "I had to learn how to fight for myself."

"Huh," Shane breathed as he followed your lead and started getting clean as well. "Didn't know that about you."

You shrugged your shoulders, offering him a helpless grin. "There's a lot you don't know about me."

"I guess that's true," Shane remarked before he started slowly making his way back towards the shore. "We should probably head on," he added as he moved towards his discarded pile of clothes. "It's going to be dark soon."

You sighed, knowing he was right, before you joined in him getting redressed. You hated the way your clothes stuck to you, but you didn't have the luxury of waiting to dry off. You had to find some kind of shelter if you could before night fell.  

Later, as you sat close to Shane and tried to soak in the warmth from the fire, you couldn't help but think back on the past couple of weeks with him.  

You thought you were better off alone, but you realized you needed him.  

Who was going to make you smile or laugh while you were fighting for your life every day? Who was going to watch your back or distract you with tales of his former glory days? Who was going to push you to walk just a bit farther when it seemed like you'd never want to walk again? Who was going to remind you that there was still life out there among the dead?

Shane. It was only Shane.  

You couldn't handle the thought of him leaving you anymore. If he left, then you would spend the rest of your days thinking about him and missing him.  

You found yourself reaching out for his hand and tangling your fingers together. You felt him startle as he glanced to you in surprise.  

"Y/N?"  

His voice was so soft and wondering that you couldn't help the hopeful smile you offered him.  

"Stay?"

For one disheartening moment, you thought he was going to disagree. He was quiet for just a beat too long before a pleased grin slowly formed on his face.  

"I didn't plan on going anywhere without you," he assured you before he squeezed your hand.  

You couldn't help but watch him as he turned back towards the fire, feeling a little breathless and awestruck.  

When Shane didn't let go of your hand, you found yourself thinking that maybe there was more to the apocalypse than simply surviving. Maybe forging and keeping a connection wasn't the worst thing you could possibly do. You had been so terrified of losing all you held dear, but with Shane at your side and his warmth pressed along your side chasing away the evening chill, you knew you instead gained everything you needed.

And you were going to hold onto that for as long as you possibly could.

[my-emotional-self]

Desired Hearts Part 3 (Alex x OC / Bill x OC)

Pairings: Alex Hogh x OC / Bill Skarsgard x OC

Warnings: Swearing, Awkwardness

Summary: After getting the job of your life, you move to Dublin to work on the set of Vikings.  You told yourself you were going to remain single after the emotional abuse your ex-boyfriend put your through.  But what happens when you meet not one, but two guys who wiggle their way into your life?  Will you let either one of them get close enough to you to change your mind about being single?

You had done a lot of exploring around Dublin the next week before you had to report on set.  Finding the grocery stores and malls were your number one priority as you got settled into your apartment.  Luckily there was a market a few blocks from your place and you were only a few miles from St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.  You had been there before when you lived in Belfast, traveling south to Dublin during a long weekend and you couldn’t wait to get some shopping in.  

You were also a bit bummed as you hadn’t run into Alex.  It would have been nice to get to know someone before you had to start working. But you soon disregarded that feeling as you knew you would become close with many of the cast and crew soon enough. That was the benefit of working on a set, everyone acted like a great big family.  It was something you always longed for, to be a part of a bigger family. Growing up you were rather lonely as you rarely played with children you age; always playing alone in your room as a nanny dozed off on the couch; your parents either working or fighting half the time. 

As Monday approached you woke up early wanting to get a head start for your first day on the set of Vikings. You showered as you let your hair dry naturally knowing they would produce gentle waves as it dried.  You kept your makeup simple with foundation, concealer and mascara before searching your closet for something to wear.  It was Spring in Ireland so you chose a black sweater and paired it with light skinny jeans and knee high black boots.  

Determining prices between a taxi and Uber, the Uber won as you waited outside for your ride.  You chatted with the Uber driver on your way to the set and he was definitely a character.  He told you many different stories of the kind of people he picked up from the bars and had you in a laughing fit by the time you reached the set. You paid the driver, making sure to give him a nice tip as you made your way through the office doors.  

“Hi there.  My name is Effie Weber and I’m new here,” you remarked as you eyed the pretty receptionist behind the desk.  

She looked over her papers and nodded when she found your name.  “Ah yes, Effie.  Sharon’s office is down the hall, last door on your right.”

Thanking her you made your way down the hall, stopping in front of Sharon’s office.  With a quick knock she opened the door and smiled widely. “Effie!!  It’s so good to meet you sweetheart,” she said, wrapping her arms around you.  She felt warm and comforting as you hugged her back.  Like you mentioned, television crews were like family.  

Sharon walked you through the office building and showed you everything you needed to know before you stepped outside.  The two of you got into a golf cart before driving off into the distance.  It was a rather rocky road, lots of turbulence as she chatted along the way.  You came to a stop as you stared ahead at the great openness of Ireland.  The views were breathtaking and you finally felt at peace; at home.  

The two of you walked along the dirt road as you found yourself in front of a bunch of trailers.  “Here you are my dear,” she stated as you saw your name on the trailer.  

Your eyes widened as you took in your nameplate.  “This is mine?” you gushed.  

Sharon smiled brightly back at you; her pearly white teeth gleaming in the sunlight.  “Of course my dear.  You get this trailer all to yourself!”

It was a shock to say the least.  On Game of Thrones you shared a trailer with at least three other hairstylists; although this trailer was much smaller than the Game of Thrones one.  You opened the door hesitantly and were greeted with warmth. Inside there was a black leather couch, a small refrigerator and as you turned to the right there was a long counter with every kind of hairstyling tool and makeup brush you could think of.

“This is where you will find all your makeup and of course you are free to bring your own tools if you choose to,” Sharon said while opening the cupboards behind you.  Inside you found everything you could possibly dream of.  Makeup, more makeup brushes, combs, brushes, hairstyling sprays; everything.  

“Sharon…this is just absolutely terrific.  Thank you so much!” you cried as you wrapped your arms around her.  

“Oh sweetie it’s no problem. You have my number so feel free to call or email me with any questions okay?”  You bobbed your head as she went out the door.  You turned and took in your new trailer; your smile never leaving your face as you looked at everything they had to offer.  It was magnificent and you couldn’t hold back the squeal the escaped your mouth.  

This was everything you could have asked for, and more.  It was one thing to start your life over anew, but it was another to feel welcomed from the minute you set foot on set and Sharon did just that.  Now, here you were in your own trailer and you felt like you finally made it.  You sat down on the couch, closing your eyes as you took in a deep breath before releasing it; reveling in everything.  

A knock came on the door as it opened up only for you to come face to face with Alex.  You stood quickly from your spot, wanting to look professionally in front of one of the main actors but you soon tripped over your own feet, landing on your knees.  “Shit,” you cussed quietly as you felt a hand on your arm, lifting you up.

“Are you alright?” Alex asked as you stood back up on your feet.  As you looked into his blue eyes you felt your knees weaken beneath you. You gripped onto the counter for support.  

“Umm, yeah, no I’m totally fine.  Thanks,” you replied, mentally scolding yourself for acting like a complete idiot.

Alex chuckled as he made his way to the chair in front of the mirrors.  “So we don’t start filming until for another two days but production wanted you to try out some hairstyles for the new season.”

You remembered Sharon talking about that in the email she sent you.  As you walked towards Alex you noticed a folder on the counter and you picked it up, flipping through the images.  Inside there were pictures of different hairstyles that they wanted you to practice on Alex and even a few women’s hairstyles.  You had no idea who the female was that you would be working with but you quickly put the file down and got to working on your muse.  

“So,” Alex began to say, breaking the silence, “how are you liking Dublin so far?”

Your gaze met his in the mirror as you continued to work on his hair.  “I’ve been to Dublin many times before but never actually lived there before.  I used to work on Game of Thrones so I lived in Belfast for a few years and would spend my long weekends in Dublin.”

Alex hummed at your words, impressed with what you had to say.  “So I’m guessing you’ve been to a few pubs then.”

You chuckled, nodding your head at his question.  “I have actually.  I really like the Voodoo Lounge.  The atmosphere is very laid back and chill.”  

“I’m impressed,” Alex replied with a grin; your pale skin blushing as you looked at your reflection in the mirror.  Alex was gorgeous with his strong bone structure and smug grin; but you scolded yourself, reminding you that you wouldn’t have any romantic feelings for anyone so soon after Shane.  

You two quickly began talking as if you old friends as you tried different hairstyles on him. Before you knew it, there came a knock on your trailer door.  Gustaf Skarsgard, Floki himself opened the door and walked in your trailer.  You tried to hide your excitement, nibbling on your lower lip.  

“Hi there.  I’m Gustaf,” he said holding out his hand. You gladly shook his hand with yours.

“I’m Effie.  Current hairstyles and makeup artist for Alex,” you replied with a smile.  “And I’m not going to lie, total fangirl.  Floki is my favorite character.”

Gustaf chuckled, not quite the same as his Floki character giggle but you were glad to hear it none the less.  “Well I’m honored.  I came to see if you two wanted some lunch.”

Pulling your phone out you looked at the time; eyes growing wide as you realized how late it had gotten.  “Yeah that sounds great,” you mentioned as the three of you hopped out of your trailer and towards the catering tent.

Tag List: @lol-haha-joke @softpapers @crushed-pink-petals @gleamed @skarswhat @kenzieam @lupy22 @isnotashtonstan @samwinchxtr @kanupps06 @potterhead1265 @miss-cap21 @pumbibaby @the-real-kellymonster @princess-evans-addict @mustbenot @remember-that-one-blog @projectxhappiness @libbitinasdeath @sophiealiice @supernatural-girl97 @badassbaker @jjlevin

[deadcactuswalking]

REVIEWING THE CHARTS: 26/12/2020 (LadBaby, Boris Johnson, Ed Sheeran)

It’s Boxing Day in the UK as I write this and I’m pretty tired but we still have to review those charts regardless, especially this chart as this is the Christmas chart – at least it’s being paraded around as such – and hence we have a Christmas #1. For the third year in a row, family vlogger, pseudo-comedian and amateur musician, not to be confused with DaBaby, Mark Ian Hoyle – more commonly known as “LadBaby”, has bagged the #1 for the holiday season. Every time I’ve covered the Christmas #1 it has been this guy and, yeah, I’m tired of it. At least this year he felt some stiff competition, and hey, the songs’ proceeds do go to charity. Oh, yeah, and this guy is the third act to have three Christmas #1s in a row, putting this nobody from Nottingham with a barebones Wikipedia page and a couple million YouTube subscribers on the level of the Beatles and Spice Girls. God, the UK Singles Chart never fails to amaze me. Anyway, that’s arguably not even the biggest story here so let’s start REVIEWING THE CHARTS.

Rundown

As I said before, this is the “Christmas week” so throughout the UK Top 75 there are a lot of holiday songs re-peaking or reaching new peaks, before dropping off entirely the next week. Let’s start as we always do by listing the drop-outs from the chart, of which there are quite a few notable ones. Most of our top 40 debuts from last week are gone, like Taylor Swift’s “champagne problems” and “no body, no crime” featuring HAIM, as well as “Show Out” by Kid Cudi, the late Pop Smoke and Skepta. We can also say goodbye to “Sunflower (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse)” by Post Malone and Swae Lee, finally after 54 weeks and a surprise return earlier this month, in addition to other top 10 hits like “you broke me first” by Tate McRae, “See Nobody” by Wes Nelson and Hardy Caprio and “What You Know Bout Love” also by Pop Smoke, as well as some more minor hits like “Wonder” by Shawn Mendes, “Lonely” by Justin Bieber and benny blanco, “Train Wreck” by James Arthur, “Golden” by Harry Styles and “Plugged in Freestyle” by A92 and Fumez the Engineer, but I can see almost all of these rebounding hard next week so I don’t think there’s much to worry about here. For fallers, since Christmas has really consumed everything about this chart this week, we have some big ones that’ll find themselves back in the top 10 or at least top 20 next week like “positions” by Ariana Grande at #19 (the first non-Christmas non-debut song to appear on the chart, by the way), “Sweet Melody” by Little Mix at #20, “Whoopty” by CJ at #22, “34+35” by Ariana Grande at #28, “WITHOUT YOU” by The Kid LAROI at #31, “Prisoner” by Miley Cyrus and Dua Lipa at #35 alongside “Midnight Sky” also by Miley at #36, “willow” by Taylor Swift off the debut to #37, “Get Out My Head” by Shane Codd at #38 and “Paradise” by MEDUZA and Dermot Kennedy. We also have “Therefore I Am” by Billie Eilish at #43, “Really Love” by KSI featuring Craig David and Digital Farm Animals at #45, even “HOLIDAY” by Lil Nas X at #49, “Mood” by 24kGoldn featuring iann dior at #54, “Loading” by Central Cee at #59, “Head & Heart” by Joel Corry and MNEK at #60, “Monster” by Shawn Mendes and Justin Bieber at #64, “Blinding Lights” by the Weeknd at #66, “Dynamite” by BTS at #67, “Lemonade” by Internet Money and Gunna featuring Don Toliver and NAV at #72, “Levitating” by Dua Lipa with the biggest fall down to #73 and finally “No Time for Tears” by Nathan Dawe and Little Mix at #74. To put the dominance of holiday music on the charts in perspective, if we take the songs that are not either explicitly Christmas-related or a clear Christmas #1 campaign (i.e. LadBaby), the song at #38 would be at #10 and our #1 would be “positions” by Ariana Grande at #19. “Whoopty” by CJ, that entered the top 10 last week and dropped to #22 this week, would be at #3. There are 11 songs in the top 40 that never made an effort to take advantage of the holiday season. When we get into some of our debuts, it’ll be even clearer how big Christmas is in British pop music. Anyway, let’s skim through our gains and returning entries, most of which are Christmas or Christmas-related. For returning entries, we have the comically awful “Lonely this Christmas” by Mud at #71, last year’s scam attempt at a Christmas #1, “River” by Ellie Goulding at #69, “The Christmas Song (A Merry Christmas to You)” by Nat King Cole at #63 (which I’d appreciate more in the top 20 like it is in the US every year – this is a classic), “2000 Miles” by the Pretenders at #62 (again, incredible song that deserves a higher holiday peak each year), “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by Darlene Love at #58, “Santa’s Coming for Us” by Sia at #55, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Sam Smith at #53 and for whatever reason, “Holy” by Justin Bieber featuring Chance the Rapper at #41. In terms of notable gains – and I stress notable, since a lot of higher-up Christmas songs had small gains but still good performance - we have “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by the Jackson 5 at #57, “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” by Frank Sinatra at #56, “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby at #52, “Baby it’s Cold Outside” by Brett Eldredge and Meghan Trainor at #51, “Forever Young” by Becky Hill at #50 (both off of the debut), “Baby it’s Cold Outside” AGAIN by Michael Bublé and Idina Menzel at #47, “Love is a Compass” by Griff at #46, “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano at #44, “Cozy Little Christmas” by Katy Perry at #42, “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” AGAIN by Dean Martin at #39, “Sleigh Ride” by the Ronettes at #34, “Christmas Lights” by Coldplay at #33, “Santa Baby” by Kylie Minogue at #32, “Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber at #29, “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms at #27, “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney at #26, “Holly Jolly Christmas” by Michael Bublé at #25, “All You’re Dreaming Of” by Liam Gallagher at #24 (thanks to a Christmas #1 campaign that crashed and failed), “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams at #23, “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono with the Plastic Ono Band featuring the Harlem Community Choir at #21, “One More Sleep” by Leona Lewis at #18, “Merry Xmas Everybody” by Slade at #17, “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson at #15, and finally, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Justin Bieber illegitimately notching a spot in the top 10 at #8. Finally, we can get onto the new arrivals, although something about this next one tells me that we won’t be in line for anything all that good.

NEW ARRIVALS

#70 – “I’ll be Home” – Meghan Trainor

Produced by Meghan Trainor

...for Christmas. She’ll be home for Christmas. I guess she just can’t finish sentences, even though her cover art has the full title. Anyway, this is a 2014 original Christmas song that went nowhere except Sweden. It’s not anything like the Bing Crosby and wasn’t nearly as successful, mostly because it’s a jingly, inoffensive ballad tacked onto a silly Christmas EP that also features Fifth Harmony and Fiona Apple of all people – who probably should have charted her track instead – as well as the deluxe edition of that debut record Title that nobody liked. At least in this, she’s not going for a faux-retro style, or at least one that I can find the inspiration for, and is just singing over this oddly jaunty piano melody – which sounds pretty albeit bland – as well as some swells of strings and acoustic guitar that do work sonically. The content implies that Meghan Trainor is in contact with Santa Claus personally, and that he gave her the advice to be home with her lover this Christmas and... that’s why this charted, isn’t it? Well, it’s not her fault – it’s not a “stuck with u” moment, but it is dodgy that she decided to put this on her own Christmas record that was released in October of this year, which can’t seem unintentional. I’d be lying to say this isn’t a pretty little tune from Trainor and her voice does fit this instrumental, but a jazzy rendition from someone with a deeper, smoother voice, would work wonders with the content. Oh, and that Christmas record features guest appearances from both Earth, Wind & Fire and Seth MacFarlane, as well as her dad, because, you know, sure, 2020.

#65 – “Gnat” – Eminem

Produced by d.a. got that dope

I can’t tell if I’m underestimating Christmas or overestimating Eminem when I say I expected an album bomb – or whatever that equivalent would be in the UK and our land of silly chart rules – from the deluxe edition of his pretty damn terrible album, Music to be Murdered By. This 3/10 trainwreck consists of two hours I’ll never get back of either great beats wasted by Eminem’s corny, stiff flows and painfully unlikeable delivery or obnoxious, unlistenable beats that are dated enough for Eminem to start going on his Relapse “killing women in funny accents” shtick, which was awful then and even worse now when he tries to replicate it. Marshall, you’re 48, and I know that you’re just “messing around” but if you’re going to treat the album as a cinematic masterpiece within the album and its thematic Alfred Hitchcock interludes, you have to understand that the audience will see it as that way as well, so you having fun and being painfully unfunny in the process over cutting-room-floor trap instrumentals cannot slide. At least Kamikaze had some genuine anger and dare I say some actual balls in how it tackled controversy and dissed everyone he could think of off the top of his head. The last record was angry and bitter, this one’s just tired and lazy, and that’s before we get into some of the ugliest bars, instrumentals and cadences Slim Shady’s ever put on record, which is especially present on “Gnat”, a lightweight trap banger with some acoustic guitars not dissimilar to those that would appear on a Lil Baby mixtape, complete with questionable bass mixing and really bad hooks. On the verses, he sends a death threat to Mike Pence, but on the chorus, his bars are “like COVID” because “you get them right off the bat”. I don’t know about you, but in 2020, I don’t want to hear Eminem harmonising with producer tags, making topical and insensitive pandemic references, or spitting sex bars with coughing ad-libs. Before the beat switch, his flows are some of the sloppiest and drawn-out he’s ever used, and yes, I’ll admit, that second beat is a lot better and Em kills it over that instrumental – but only for a brief moment before we have a third beat, which Eminem is pretty great over, especially with that sax and sweet piano keys overlaid with hard 808s and Eminem’s rapid-pace, quick fire flow... and then he raps the chorus again and I want the song to end as quickly as it started – thankfully, it does end rather abruptly. Just wasted potential all throughout – if that beat switch and flow was a guest verse on damn near anyone else’s record (Em has made tracks with Don Toliver of all people, and he could work), this could be great. For now, Em, you know Kris Kristofferson? I think you should Piss Pissofferson. Forever. Look that up, by the way, that’s a lyric on the record because of course it is.

#61 – “In the Bleak Midwinter” – Jamie Cullum

Produced by ???

I had only briefly heard the name “Jamie Cullum” before this, but he is an English jazz-pop singer and pianist who’s basically useless and uninteresting but, hey, at least he has a radio show on BBC Radio 2. Sure, I mean that might have been the reason that Amazon Music picked him up for an exclusive project for which this is the biggest single. It’s not on Spotify, it’s not even on Genius, and it’s barely on YouTube but since it is, I should tell you that this is his first charting single since 2009 and it’s a remarkably uninteresting rendition of a Christmas carol done a lot better by Jacob Collier – and that one’s on Spotify – so yeah, your sleepy piano arrangement and tone that makes you sound like Robbie Williams half the time and Beck the other, doesn’t interest me. Goodbye.

#30 – “Afterglow” – Ed Sheeran

Produced by PARISI, Fred Again and Ed Sheeran

If we inexplicably remove everything Christmas-related on the chart, Eminem’s “Gnat” would have debuted at #20, and this new track from Ed Sheeran, already stunted from being released on an unconventional day, would have hit #5. Regardless of chart position, Ed Sheeran’s back with his first solo single since Divide. Yes, I’m purposefully ignoring that collaborative project he put out in 2019 because as far as I know, it doesn’t exist. At the end of the year, when things are looking as if he could start touring again, Sheeran predictably releases his lead-off single. This song in particular is a heartfelt ballad from Ed to his wife, who he wishes to be there forever and even if they aren’t together at any moment, whether he’s touring or they separate for whatever reason, he’ll “hold on to the afterglow”. I won’t lie, it’s a really sweet and convincingly sold love song from Ed, even if it’s not anything new, it does feel like a different approach since he’s a newly-wed man now. Although I’m not a fan of this somewhat muddy mixing that somehow messes up just a guy and his acoustic guitar, making what should be a really pretty, ethereal and mellow track sound almost ugly, which doesn’t flatter Ed and his limited delivery at all, especially when he starts getting multi-tracked in the second verse and whooshing sound effects of strings pop up in the mix, and, yeah, it just sounds cheap and gross at this point, which is really a waste of incredible content and a great performance from Ed, who sells everything as well as he can. I understand how this is supposed to be down to Earth, so a perfect mix wouldn’t make sense, but if you’re going to make him harmonise with his own background vocals and even show signs of belting, give him some more grandiosity and go full out instead of restraining him so that it just sounds jarring. With a different mix this could be one of Ed’s best tracks since the melodies are on point, the song feels really heart-warming and sincere, especially coming from Ed to his wife, but we won’t get a remaster anytime soon, I imagine, so for now this is just pretty damn good. I love the cover art as well, painted by Ed himself, and released alongside the single as a bit of a Christmas gift to fans, as well as the start of what I’m pretty sure will be a promo cycle. If this is a good peek into what that album will sound like, it’s safe to say I’m more than excited than ever to hear from Ed Sheeran.

#5 – “Boris Johnson is a Fricking Jerk” – Kool & the Gang

Produced by ???

Okay, so the song’s calling Boris Johnson something stronger than a “fricking jerk”, and the song is decidedly not by soul legends Kool & the Gang, although I’d love for that to happen sometime. This is a family show, of course, so we have to take some liberties. This track originates from a comedian from Basildon, Essex of all places, and whilst we don’t know his name, the songwriting credit on Spotify is given to contemporary British poet Wayne Clements so maybe he’s behind this, who knows? Whether he is or not, I can tell you the history behind this comedian’s music, as he has been making crude short singles about controversial topics in British society and politics for a while, including some about Nick Clegg that charted, although never higher than #63. He retired in 2016 but after writing an autobiography, the guy’s back and he released a compilation of punk rock tracks, all of which are small and profane, with a “band” of puppets that I also can’t name. State-controlled Russian television networks – because, sure, again, it’s 2020 – say that he will start touring in 2021, mostly because he’s finally reached that mainstream audience with this family-friendly tune about Boris Johnson. Here’s how Vick Hope and Katie Thistleton introduced it live on air during the mid-week chart reveal.

Now at #19, we've got a track about Boris Johnson that has so many bad words in it, we can't play it on daytime Radio 1.

Ah, you cowards. Wait... Anyway, I’m pretty happy that the British public can stick it to Boris and the heartless Tories that follow him and currently rule the country, even if it is all a bloody stupid joke from an anonymous punk rocker. We can dig into Boris for his failures on Brexit, mishandling of the pandemic, disgraceful reality-star-esque personal life, that he wasn’t even born in the UK yet is basically a nationalist, his history of Islamophobic commentary, his crap excuses for journalism back in the 2000s or even his clown-nose, blonde bowl-cut “hair style” he adopts whilst addressing us on live television feeding us lies and misleading statements that turn into retcons the next time he has to address the nation, whether it be on Brexit or COVID-19 tiers and regulations, both of which are a confusing mess to both sides of Europe that exist to drift us away from where we should be going as a nation, and further into the realm of political party tribalism that we know absolutely does not work in the States and that we mock the Yanks for. We’re more than the sick man of Europe, we are the America of Europe. I guess you could say Ireland is our Canada, but we don’t even have a Mexico to make us look better, we just have other western, central and northern European countries that may be flawed but are far ahead of whatever the hell this shell of a union is in 2020, less than 80 years after the creation of our National Health Service. People will look to pundits and newsreaders like Piers Morgan, entertainers like Phillip Schofield, war veterans and charity-givers like Captain Tom Moore, and even politicians like Boris Johnson, as the “heroes” of Britain’s 2020 but it’s increasingly clear that absolutely no-one is a hero, and it’s the people’s right to be upset. Hence, nearly exactly a year after Boris Johnson cheated his way into power by smear campaigns and elitism, we have this song debuting at #5. Unfortunately, the song doesn’t go into any of that. It just repeats the title in an anthemic – and considerably agreeable – refrain that is an undeniable punk hook. The riffs and guitar work here isn’t of any interest, but the guy’s delivery is powerful and furious, so I’ll give the song credit: it’s not just correct but it’s really good, especially for a one minute runtime. He also released some satirical MIDI-level synth-pop remix with gross Christmas sleigh bells and hi-hat skitters, because, say it with me, it’s 2020. I wouldn’t recommend the album though, it overstays its welcome by the time you get to “Jesus Died of a Stranglewank”.

#1 – “Don’t Stop Me Eatin’” – LadBaby

Produced by who cares?

I can’t get mad at this lazy “parody” of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” about sausage rolls, or even its Ronan Keating remix, which is LadBaby doing a favour to Ronan Keating, if anything. Sure, my blood boils with the idea that this incompetent Internet personality from the East Midlands – which I think I’m sadly also able to describe myself as – got the #1 over Mariah Carey, or even that Boris Johnson diss track, but it’s going to the Trussell Trust and it’s ultimately an inoffensive, vaguely happy track that even gets the vegans involved. I, for one, prefer “Boris Johnson is a Sausage Roll”, a version of our #5 you can – and should – play on the radio even after Christmas. I don’t have anything more to say about this guy so piss off, LadBaby, you can’t even get the album cover right to the song you’re parodying, thrice in a row.

Conclusion

Best of the Week is definitely going to the Somethings for “Boris Johnson is a Something Something”, with an Honourable Mention to Ed Sheeran’s “Afterglow”. I can’t bring myself to give a charity single Worst of the Week so I’ll spare LadBaby the honour and grant it to Jamie Cullum for his greedy Amazon exclusive trite, with a Dishonourable Mention for “Gnat” by Eminem, for just being wasted potential all across the board. Next week, everything Christmas-related will be gone and we’ll get a bunch of returns and hopefully some new, interesting returning entries. We might even get the impact of Playboi Carti’s long-anticipated album – and I hope so because it’s fantastic – but that’s wishful thinking. Anyways, I hope everyone had a happy holiday season. Here’s our top 10:

Thank you for reading. You can follow me @cactusinthebank for more rambling about pop music and occasionally politics, and I’ll see you next year.

[glowysweetfab]

Richonne AU (Forbidden Love) Your Love For All Of Time pt 2

Happy Birthday @siancore I did a part 2 as requested for you and all those who asked. I hope everyone enjoys.

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Michonne stood and looked around her small quarters one last time. She had tidied it so if looked the same way she found it a year ago.

“So Mr.Blake informed me you were his governess for little Penny.” Mr. Walsh said, as he looked at the young, black woman in front of him. He immediately decided she was a serious little thing. Her hair was pulled back in a tight bun of coily, curls. Although a few tiny curls escaped and rested against her forehead. She wore a bright, long-sleeved white blouse that had a collar buttoned all the way up to base of her neck. It was tucked into a long, dark skirt that failed to hide her shapely figure. Her hands clasped in front of her. If not for her youthful features and large sparkling, brown, almond shaped eyes she would be the spitting image of his governess. Do they all dress alike? He wondered.

“Yes sir.” Michonne answered, she swallowed and looked as if she was blinking back tears. “Such a tragedy what happened to his wife and daughter.” Mr. Walsh said. The wife and daughter of her former employer were killed when their horse got spooked and ran their carriage into a lake bringing them back from church. None of the passengers could swim. Mr. Blake wasn’t fond of church service and he was not present. Michonne had saved enough to visit her father on weekends off from teaching, so she wasn’t there with them that tragic day. “Mr.Blake is certain he wants to part with you?” Mr. Walsh asked. When Mr. Blake had asked him to employ Michonne he didn’t look to be in any state to be alone, as most of the staff had left, expect a few and Michonne. Michonne. The only one seemingly able to handle his grief…until now.

Something dark clouded her pretty brown eyes. “It’s probably for the best.” Michonne said softly. Mr. Walsh nodded in understanding. “Well I have no use for a governess, all my children are past that point.” He said, waving his hands in the direction of a photograph of a tall dark haired boy and blonde girl. “I see.” Michonne said looking down at her hands. “No one seems to be in need of a governess at the moment.” Even those with small children and no governess, Michonne thought sadly. “I will do anything. I’m a very good gardner, I can cook, and I can clean. Surely a manor of this size could use more hands.” Michonne said, looking back up at Mr.Walsh.

“A scholar like yourself wants to be a maid? It won’t pay nearly as well.” Mr. Walsh replied. “It’s fine. I have a sick father. Anything at all I can put toward his treatments I will be grateful for.” Michonne said quickly. “Is it the consumption?” Mr. Walsh asked. Michonne nodded. “Yes sir.” She said quietly. Mr. Walsh sighed. “Go see my man, David, he’s the one who escorted you in. Let him know you’re the new maid and to show you the maid’s quarters. Then ask for Andrea and she will show you your room.” He said quickly standing from his desk. Michonne broke into a smile, briefly, before rushing forward to shake his hand. “Thank you so much, sir.” Mr. Walsh smiled despite himself, delighting in the softness of her smooth skin.

Michonne walked to the door, picking up the lone bag that contained all her belongings. She glanced around at her former sanctuary, the room where she and Rick consummated their love, one last time before pushing the door open and walking out. Michonne made haste down the butler’s corridor and knocked on David’s door.

“There had better be a good reason why I am getting up and it’s barely even dawn.” David grumbled from inside. “It’s not like the Walshs are away all the time and I get to sleep in you know.” David said as he opened the door and saw Michonne standing there. David instantly forgot he was to be feeling put out and smiled down at the pretty maid, with her dark, smooth skin and sweet brown eyes.

“I am so sorry to disturb you so early David, but I am leaving.” Michonne said, smiling at his ruffled hair. David was rarely out of sorts with his appearance. David frowned, blinking as he took in Michonne. She was wearing the brown cloak she had worn when she first arrived a year ago and clutching the same carpet bag.

“Leaving? To go where, dear? At this hour?” David said, confusion in his voice. “What about your father?”

David admired and respected Michonne straight away. She was thorough at any task, bright, the quickest wit he had ever seen from a maid. She didn’t senselessly gossip with the other maids, even got them reading books. In just two months of working for the Walshs she was promoted to head of the kitchen staff when Jacqui retired. Michonne spoke little of herself but he knew that every Wednesday she sent her wages to London to pay for her father’s treatment and housing.

“Its all been taken care of David.” Michonne said simply, reaching her hand out to David. “Here, these are the keys to the pantry and silver cupboard. I also wrote a letter for Mr. Walsh, if you would be so kind to give him these.”

David begrudgingly accepted the items in one hand. “I feel like I am losing a daughter.” David said gazing down at Michonne. Michonne laughed softly and reached up to hug her friend good bye. Tears fell from her eyes, as if she hadn’t cried enough. “Please tell everyone I said goodbye.” Michonne said through her sniffles as she pulled from the friendly embrace. David nodded.

Michonne walked away and out of the servants quarters exiting through the staff entrance. The sun was weak in the sky, just peaking up over the trees. Michonne could hear the clip clop of a horse’s shoes on the gravel driveway and saw a carriage coming down the path. The carriage pulled in front of Michonne and stopped.

“Whoa, whoa” Daryl said as he pulled on the reigns, slowing the horse. He tipped his hat at Michonne. “See you got Rick’s letter.” Daryl Said as he hopped down and opened the carriage door for Michonne.

Daryl Dixon had been Rick’s valet and right hand man since Rick was a young boy. It was no surprise to Michonne she had entrusted this task to him.

“I did indeed.” Michonne said, smiling, as she put her bag in the back seat and climbs inside the carriage. Daryl closed the door and climbed up in the front, he grabbed the reins, gave them a quick snap and the carriage headed back down the path it came. Michonne turned around to look at the Walsh manor for the last time. Michonne turned away and starred straight ahead.

“Rick.” Michonne said softly. A slow smile spread on his face. “Michonne, with the voice of an angel, I quite like the way you say my name.” Michonne’s eyes widened in surprise. Rick chuckled softly. “I am not as daft as I look, I remembered your name. I couldn’t forget it.” Michonne opened her mouth to speak but something caught her eye in the doorway and she turned from Rick and resumed monitoring the kitchen staff. Rick frowned, turning in the direction of where she had looked to see his best friend, Shane walking in the kitchen. “There you are. Hiding are we?” Shane asked as he leaned against the doorframe. “No, I just came to, uh,-” Rick looked around catching Michonne looking at him out of the corner of her eyes. She looked at a bowl of apples behind them on the countertop before again turning her gaze to her staff. “I, uh, just came to get an apple.” Rick said lamely. Shane had already stopped paying attention and was exchanging flirty glances with a blonde maid. “Yea, alright. Well your aunt expects everyone to listen to her piano playing tonight.” Shane said, finally looking away from the blonde maid and back at him. “Right, I am coming. I just wanna thank your wonderful staff for the apple.” Rick explained.

The little blonde maid made a show of scrubbing the countertop, throwing little glances back at Shane. “Andrea, I think the rest of the countertop could some attention.” Michonne called to her, trying not laugh at Andrea’s flirtations. “Right away, miss.” Andrea said moving further down the counter. Shane smiled at her before looking at Rick. “I don’t need a chaperone, Shane.” Rick said, sighing as he plunked an apple from the bowl. “Oh, if I am going to suffer through your aunt’s music you are most certainly going to as well. No sneaking off.” Michonne struggled not to laugh as she now began her inspection of the silverware. Rick looked thoughtful for a moment. He glanced down the kitchen at the blonde maid who was filling a bucket with water. “What if you couldn’t find me? Better yet, what if we both just disappear for a little while.” Rick said eagerly, tossing his apple in the air and catching it before taking a bite. “Besides, poor Andrea has to carry that heavy bucket all herself. Maybe you should help her.” Rick said as he chewed through his apple. Shane stared at his friend before looking at Andrea. He pushed himself off the doorframe shaking his finger at Rick, as if scolding a child. “I like this mischievous side of you.” He said, as he made his way over to Andrea. Rick snorted. Michonne had stopped her inspection to watch the scene unfold. Rick turned back to her, smiling triumphantly. “That should buy us some time. Now where were we?”

Michonne was jolted awake as the carriage came to an abrupt stop. She didn’t remember even falling asleep. Disoriented, Michonne looked about at her surroundings. She was still in the carriage but the sky was no one longer alive with the sun as night had settled in, the moon shone brightly. Daryl peered through the window from his spot in front of the carriage. “Ah, you’re awake.” Michonne nodded as she got her bearings, “How long was I asleep?”

“All day. I stopped for lunch and I was gonna wake ya, but ya looked like ya needed the rest.” Daryl said, he looked away from Michonne for a moment. “I guess ya not sleeping well ‘ither.” Michonne closed her eyes against a wave of emotional pain. During her slumber in the carriage she dreamed of Rick and all their happy moments, to hear he wasn’t sleeping well conjured up the last time she saw him, broken and crying in Mr. Walsh’s study. It hurt to be unable to comfort her love.

“Well we ‘ere now at least ya can get some food and a bed.” Michonne opened her eyes and turned to look out the window. Her mouth dropped open at the sight of a two story-story stone cottage, set back from the road among a lush green field. Michonne turned around and opened her bag, pulling an envelope from it. “Daryl, will you please give this to Rick?” Daryl took the letter. “I will, Miss.”

Daryl opened the door and held his hand out, Michonne took it as she stepped down gazing out at her home. Daryl grabbed her bag and closed the carriage door. He pulled a folded piece of paper from his coat pocket. “Tis the deed the to the property.” Daryl said as he handed it to Michonne “Welcome home.”

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“Paris in the spring, I can not imagine what could be better, darling. Well perhaps being Mrs. Rick Grimes of course.” Lori prattled on, beaming as she looked at her new husband, as she sat in her new study with Rick going over their honeymoon plans. Rick wasn’t listening, he stared out the window watching for Daryl.

“Rick!” He jumped in his seat and turned to face his new wife. “I am sorry, Lori. I suppose it’s been very an exciting week.” Rick said as he saw Daryl and his carriage pull into the estate out the corner of his eye. “Why don’t you get some rest we have a long journey tomorrow.” Rick said finally looking at Lori. Lori stood from her chair and nodded as she nervously played with her fingers. “I know we are husband and wife but I am grateful you have given me time before we consummate our marriage.”

Daryl then walked into the room “Rick I - oh ma'am good evening.” he said upon spotting Lori. “I am sorry to intrude.”

“Oh it’s quite alright, Daryl. Lori is going to retire for the evening. We have a busy day tomorrow.” Rick said.

Lori smiled at her husband. She walked over and kissed him soundly on the cheek. “Goodnight my dear.” “Good night, Lori.” Rick whispered he watched as Lori retire to her room. Once she disappeared up the stairs Rick closed the door to the sitting room. “Did you see Michonne? Did everything go well? How was she? Did she like the property?” Rick asked, staring into Daryl’s eyes, grasping his arm.

Daryl chuckled as he gently dislodged himself from his friend. “Ay, sir. I saw her. There were no problems collecting her from the Walsh’s. Michonne adores the property. As to how she is…she’s not much better off than you.” Rick looked away and walked over to the fireplace, staring into the flames. Daryl pulled Michonne’s letter from his pocket and walked over to the fireplace.“She wrote this for you.” Daryl said softly handing Rick the envelope. Rick took it and stared at it. Daryl patted him on the shoulder before leaving the room. Rick observed Michonne’s neat hand writing on the envelope To Rick. He sunk into a chair and began to read her words.

To my darling, Rick

Its bittersweet to write those words as by now I know you are no longer mine in the eyes of God. However, you are mine and I am yours for as long as you want me. I don’t know if there is anyway I can express my gratitude for what you have done for me and my father. I must tell I am so grateful my love. You have no idea the enormity of the gift you have given me.

As I write this I am haunted by the last image I have of you, standing in your godfather’s study, heartbroken. I meant it when I said I will always love you, Rick Grimes. Please be happy my love. Find joy in your new life. Be happy even though we may never find one another again.

Your love for all of time, Michonne Knighton

Rick reread her words over and over again until he knew it by heart. He gazed into the dying fire in the fireplace.

“Mr.Grimes, what are you doing here again? You do realize that you are not supposed to be in the kitchen.” Michonne said exasperated, standing up from the kitchen table.“Rick.” He said simply as he walked further into the room, leaning against the counter. Michonne smiled. “Are you still hungry, Rick? I can make you something.” she said looking into his blue eyes. “No breakfast was quite nice thank you.” He replied looking deep into her brown eyes. “This may sound odd, but I am drawn to you.”

“Not many black girls where you’re from?” Michonne said as she sat back down. Rick chuckled. “It’s not that at all, I promise.” Rick said as he stepped closer to the table. Michonne fiddled with her pen. “Hear my soul speak. Of the very instant that I saw you, Did my heart fly at your service.” Rick said as he sat in the chair across from her. Michonne slowly smiled at Rick.“Why are you quoting Shakespeare at me?” “Ah, so do you enjoy his work?” Rick asked as he smiled at her. “I do. I was even lucky enough to accompany two students to a production once.” Michonne said, avoiding his eyes as she twirled the pen in her fingers. “Students?” Rick asked as he watched her elegant fingers. “I was a governess.” Michonne said quietly. She took a deep breath and looked at Rick. “Why Shakespeare? Why The Tempest?” Rick looked away. “I don’t know. It’s about one’s position and power. Love. I loved that part in the play when Ferdinand professes his love to Miranda. I couldn’t ever imagine loving someone at first sight.” Rick said as he looked into Michonne’s eyes once again. Michonne closed her eyes shaking her head slightly. “You can’t be here, Rick. You have to stop coming to this kitchen.” Michonne said as she opened her eyes and looked into his. “Then tell me where to meet you.” Rick said, as his eyes explored her own.

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Michonne took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet, fresh air. She exhaled slowly and surveyed her surroundings. She was in a pasture full of wildflowers. If the weather permitted Michonne walked there every morning, after helping Dr.Greene tend to her father, to gather flowers for the house.

Michonne looked at her basket it was overflowing. She smiled to herself. It was time to go back. The past two months had been the most peaceful she had know for some time. The physician Rick arranged to care for her father was a sweet man with two young daughters. Maggie and Beth were the sweetest, funniest girls. Always helping out around the house and just making Michonne laugh. Michonne became their governess and she hadn’t realized how much joy teaching brought her until she was able to do it everyday.

Her father. Ezekiel Knighton’s health hadn’t improved but it hadn’t gotten worse. Michonne was able to visit him everyday. It was wonderful talking to her father, a brilliant man who was an abolitionist as a young man who then settled into a simple life as a book dealer. Her mother died when she was very young and her father was devoted to her, Michonne’s greatest joy was when he read to her as she fell asleep. Now she read to him as he fell asleep,

The days were long, full of chores and laughter. They occupied her mind but when night fell, Michonne would dream of Rick. Every single night and they were happy. Michonne awoke before the sun rose every morning and the reality of being alone, that the man she loved was married, and that she may never see him again set in. Michonne allowed the tears to spill before she began her chores. Getting water to wash with, preparing breakfast for the household, assisting Dr. Greene with her father, having lessons with Maggie and Beth, cleaning house, doing laundry, tending to the vegetable gardens, all of which Maggie and Beth assisted her with, it was an endless day of tasks.

Michonne finished chopping firewood to heat the oven for tonight’s dinner. She gathered it up in her arms and headed for the house. Entering through the kitchen door, she placed the wood in a basket near the oven just as Beth entered with some freshly rinsed potatoes. “Thank you so much, Beth.” “It’s no trouble Ms. Michonne.” They both heard a loud knock coming from the front hallway.“Who could that be?” Michonne asked as she stood. “Maybe it’s Mr. Porter. Perhaps, he lost a goat again.” Beth said as she began to chop the potatoes. “Perhaps.” Michonne said, lighting the fire for the stove. “I will get it.” Maggie hollered from the hallway. “It’s impolite to yell, Maggie.” Beth hollered back. Michonne giggled as she stepped back from the stove and went to fetch a pot from the pantry.

Michonne reentered the kitchen to find Maggie standing there. “Maggie, was it Mr. Porter?” She asked placing the pot on the table. “No ma'am. He won’t give his name he just wants to speak with you.” Michonne frowned and grabbed a small log from the basket in the kitchen. Holding it close to her skirt, slightly hidden in its folds. Michonne looked at Maggie and Beth “If anything sounds strange get your father?” The girls nodded in unison.

Michonne headed down the corridor and made her way into the sitting room where the man was standing at a window looking out into the back gardens. She stared perplexed at his back, her eyes running over him from the brown curls on his head down to the boots on his feet, then she knew. “Rick?” He turned at the sound of her voice. It was him. It was truly him. The piece of wood fell from her grasp and she rushed into his arms. Rick, with all deftness, caught her in his arms, lifting her feet off of the ground, cradling her close to him.

Rick held her tight, her face buried in his neck as her hot tears wet his skin. He placed his love back on her feet and pulled back to look at her. Rick reached one hand up to caress away her tears. Michonne looked up at him through her blurry eyes, her hands against his chest. “How are you here my love? Please don’t be a dream.” Michonne whispered looking deep into his blue eyes. Rick chuckled, deep and husky, “I’m no dream.” he said as he pressed his lips against hers.

To be continued…

[twdfanfics]

CDC Survivors

Request: Yes, anon

More of a ‘how you meet’ story than anything. Your a soldier assigned to protect the CDC and when the group comes in you and Rick have a moment but nether continue it due to him being married to Lori. You end up leaving with them too

WARNINGS: NONE

Words: 673

So, I may have gone a bit overboard writing this one like Sing, but this one will be much shorter, I promise. But there will be more parts to this. Also, on the note of Sing, a new part should be coming up soon!!!

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“What’s that?” you ask Edwin Jenner, last surviving CDC member. You’d been assigned here to protect the CDC with a bunch of other soldiers, but, like Edwin, you’re the only one left. Edwin doesn’t answer you. Instead, he rolls his chair over to the blinking computer and opens the camera at the door. “Are those…”

“People?” he finishes for you. “Yeah, those are survivors.”

They’ve got some good firepower, and two kids with them.

“Let them in,” you command. You can tell they’re arguing about staying or leaving. Edwin moves the camera to look around at them. One of them immediately notices and starts talking to it. They think he’s crazy. “Let them in!” Edwin hesitates then listens to you, opening the door to let them in. You run so that you can meet them at the front.

“Hello,” you say to them as you’re coming in. They freeze, guns trained on you. Your hand hovers over your side where your own gun is. “I’m with the CDC, here to help not harm.” Technically that’s true. Just not entirely, but it’ll make them feel better and less likely to shoot you. You get them to grab their crap then close the door and lock with with your security badge and password. Next is the list of basic questions you ask them. Are any of them infected or been exposed to someone who was infected. It’s a yes, but you allow them to continue anyways. From what you’ve seen, it’s not spread airborne, so they should be safe. However, Edwin will want them to do a blood test or something. You warn them about that and they’re fine with it. A small price to pay for safety, you guess.

“Rick Grimes,” the leader says to you when you’re about to lead them to an elevator that’ll take you to Ediw.

“Y/n Y/l/n,” you reply.

As you’re leading them down nobody really talks. A questions about if you’re underground and that’s it until you reach the main room. They see Edwin, ask more questions, then notice there isn’t anybody else here. It’s been lonely just the two of you. You’re grateful that there are more people now, and they look harmless enough.

“What about who you were just talking to? Vi?”

“Vi, say hello to our guests,” Edwin says. Edwin always did like showing off a bit. Especially big toys like Vi. “Tell them welcome.”

“Hello, guests. Welcome.”

You keep an eye on everybody while they’re getting their blood tested. Little Carl doesn’t seem to care for needles all too much and everybody else is almost passing out from not having food for several days. Edwin and you share a look before you nod and go set up some food for them.You’ve got plenty. Not to mention a bit of wine, which they look like they could use.

You can tell they’ve had a bit too much when Rick lets Carl try wine.

“Ewww,” Carl says, practically copying my reaction when I first had a bit of wine when I was young. Eww certainly was the word that described it.

“It seems we haven’t properly thanked our hosts yet,” Rick says, motioning to you and Edwin, sitting at the front of the table “Thank you.”

“So, when you gonna tell us what really happened to us here, doc?”.You roll your eyes. Of course, there’s always got to be the serious killjoy who only wants to talk about work when you’re trying to have a bit of fun. The others are clearly annoyed, but some wondering the same thing. You pour yourself another glass of wine as Shane continues on and Edwin gives him what he wants to hear.

Everyone is paying attention to Edwin, but you can feel a pair of eyes on you. You turn your head, your eyes meeting the bright blue ones. He doesn’t look away when you catch him staring.

“Dude, you are such a buzzkill, man,” Glenn says. You raise your glass to that, agreeing.