#don't think I'll polish this much further but I *am* satisfied with how I did so I wanted to share :)

[deputygonebye]

@xgoldxnhour asked: “i cannot believe that anyone can deserve you... but it appears i am overruled.”

Pride and Prejudice (2005) Prompts.

Water warmed from the shine of the sun, lines meant for fishing were checked by hands already yet worried down. Bone ached with every bend of the wrist - skin cracked and scabs turned dry - red around the knuckles but somehow safe from bruise. Shane had never known exhaustion so terrible. Able to drain the very force of his life, beyond the soul, the limitlessness of his mind and power. More difficult with each new day that dawned, the weariness in him began to take control. Seeped into his veins like an addiction most foul; euphoria that drove what convictions and spirit remained, the promise to be committed husband and tender father.

Pant wet from the tide that rolled to shore, the span of a lake like crystal, clear and blue, around the knees that bent into the water and turned dark gray into almost black. Clung to the skin beneath - the snag from a line cut into flesh at the joint - discomfort endured for the sake of possible food. Hunger satisfied for another day, Shane's stomach growled in protest, the loss of two nights without proper meal. A plate of fish rationed for he but sent further down the line, to the hands of Eloise, weather-beaten with chipped nails. What used to be painted in polish ruined by the circumstances of their lives; the Walkers unable to break her courage, stronger still for the baby she carried. Proud and stubborn as she always was, it wasn't an easy feat for Shane to have her accept his serving. Fish meant for he, the extra blankets and pillows, too, extra accommodations that were fitting for an expectant mother. What should've always been provided for Eloise - motherhood celebrated but within limit, disincentive birthed from the outbreak. An unfair discouragement for an otherwise joyous occasion.

Loose rocks crushed underfoot, before her words came forward, Shane knew she was there. Hands on her hips, a smile to her face, eyes bright and playful. Eloise beautiful in the light of the sun, dressed in clothing a size bigger than her usual, comfort and practicality married in her wear. A vision that Shane couldn't look away from; the scowl on his features gone before it could truly be there, a sigh that lifted his shoulders and soothed the sharp pain to his hand, ruby dripped along the fishline.

"And I thought I told you to rest, but it looks like I am overruled, too. Ain't that somethin'?"

Standing, Shane grasped her waist, the hand not wounded, and pulled Eloise close. Welcomed her scent and the warmth of her body, the sweetness of her kiss when he pressed his lips to hers. Kisses; one taste from her not enough, would never be enough.

"What happened, Sunshine? Merle do somethin' stupid again? Don't you worry, I'll set him straight. After last week, what he did to Jacqui, that bastard's on thin ice."

Shane smiled, moved his palm from Eloise's side to her belly, the small bump that shaped her shirt. Round but none too big, the first sign that life had started, Shane and Eloise's love made true. A happiness so long awaited and hoped for; their baby.

"You feelin' okay, darlin'? Our little peanut ain't causin' you too much trouble now, are they? Hey, I'll tell you what, El. I know they ain't bigger than a lemon at this point, but our baby, I have a feelin' that they're gonna be the cutest kid this side of Georgia. Curly hair, wide eyes; I hope they look like you. God forbid they get my ears, though!"

"Come on, babe. Why don't you and I had back to camp? Don't think I gave you permission to stop restin'. Not that you mind what I said about that - could never tell you what to do, could I? Not all the time, anyway." Shane said, holding his empty fishing line in one hand, Eloise's in the other, their fingers laced around. "How about this? You stay seated in that lounge chair I set up for you around the firepit, give yourself and our baby some relaxation, and then, if you want somethin' to pass the time, you patch up my hand here? Fishin' line - that stuff can slice through you better than a blade. You'll be off your feet and doin' somethin' productive all the while. Could teach our baby a thing or two. For instance, how to patch up Daddy when he hurts himself. Bound to happen more than once, don't you think, El?"

[caire-draws]

More progress! :D