#father Daryl

[dixons-sunshine]

“Claire?”

“No, I don’t really like that.”

“Mhm. Blaire, then?”

“Maybe, but I’m not so sure.”

“Trixie?”

“God, no. I’m not giving our child a hooker’s name.”

“Jesus, woman. M’runnin’ outta names ‘ere. Everythin’ I say is either ‘no’ or ‘maybe’. What’s a guy gotta do to get a ‘yeah’ ‘round ‘ere?”

You laughed and placed a tender kiss to the top of Daryl’s head, your fingers gently working through his hair. “I just don’t know. Besides, what makes you so certain our baby will be a girl?”

Daryl hummed and nuzzled his face deeper into your chest. “M’not certain,” he began, his fingers lightly tapping against your bump to a rhythm you didn’t know. “Jus’ still ponderin’ over boy names. None of ‘em seem right, y’know? If s’a boy, I want him to have a badass name.”

“DJ.”

Daryl slightly raised his head to look at you, his eyebrows quirked in interest. “DJ?”

“Yup,” you told him. “Daryl Junior.”

Daryl scoffed and laid his head back down on your chest. “Nah, we ain’t namin’ our kid after me. S’where I put my foot down.”

You chuckled in amusement. “What? I think it’s cute. Having a little you is a nice thing to think about.”

“Nah.” Despite his protest, Daryl couldn’t help the small smile that spread over his face at the suggestion. He would never give in, but he appreciated the thought. A little him. It was both thrilling and terrifying to think about. “How ‘bout Adam?”

It was your turn to scoff this time. “I thought you wanted our kid to have a badass name, not an I’m-about-to-do-your-taxes name.”

Daryl chuckled and shrugged nonchalantly. “I like it. S’not my fault yer so picky.”

You faked an offended gasp, lightly hitting him on the arm. “I’m not picky. I just don’t wanna give our kid a name that we’ll end up regretting.”

Daryl chuckled again. “Yeah, I know.” Daryl placed a soft kiss to your cheek before settling back into your chest again. “‘Sides, ya wouldn’t be the woman I fell in love with if ya weren’t jus’ the slightest bit picky.”

You smiled at him fondly. “I love you, Dar.”

“Love ya too, Sunshine.” A few minutes of silence passed between the two of you, and you had started to think that he had fallen asleep, until he spoke up again. “How ‘bout Leonard?” The sound of your groan had Daryl full-on laughing, a rare thing for the archer. “What? S’a good name.”

“Sure, if you say so.”

©dixons-sunshine 2024. I do not give permission for my works to be copied, modified, adapted or translated to any other site or platform without evidence of my given consent.

[itz-just-girl-thingz]

Help😭

[angelwings-crossbowstrings]

You Get Me Closer to God

Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Fem!Reader

Setting: France

Warnings: Words & Actions that will damn me to hell; Poorly written smut; blasphemy

Summary: Father Daryl wasn’t an ordinary priest. He drew out your curiosity and curiosity killed the cat…but satisfaction brought it back.

A/N: I am going to hell. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200

gif by @mcbride

The smoke stung your eyes a little as it wafted upward from the cigarette hanging between your lips. Your eyes narrowed as you watched the priest arrive with two sisters and a young boy. A strange combination, but not the strangest you had ever seen wander into the walls. 

You had been with this same group of nuns since just after the end of the old world. You had traveled from America just before the turn, backpacking and adventuring with your boyfriend and the friends you shared. Partying, sex, drugs, and copious amounts of alcohol and bad decisions. 

You were the only one left now. 

The sisters had taken you off the street, quite literally. Half dead, beaten, and left for the hungry ones who would eventually stumble upon you. Sister Catherine had ensured your stay, even when you balked against most of their beliefs and practices once you were well enough to attend sermons and lessons. 

Though Sister Catherine still tried to persuade you to join them, they had all but given up, Mother Superior only allowing you to remain because it would be nothing short of a sin to cast you out into the clutches of the sick that wandered in search of flesh. You did your chores and kept your nose clean, well enough. 

You plucked the cigarette from your mouth and crushed it beneath your boot heel, following the sisters and their guests further into the compound by way of the narrow trail in the small garden. 

The sisters carried weapons, which was odd enough, but the priest laden with them, his scrutinizing gaze taking in every inch of the area around him. You knew that look well. Memorizing entrances, exits, weaknesses. 

You fell in behind the group as they entered the makeshift sanctuary, keeping enough distance to not be detected. Something told you (the way he turned his head and angled it, listening) that the priest knew you were there regardless. 

Father Daryl, you learned, observing from one of the pews in the back. The four were passing through, on a mission of which they would not divulge the details. Sister Catherine was content enough with letting it go, leading the group to their quarters for the night. While the sisters and boy bowed their heads with the sign of the cross, Father Daryl did nothing more than observe. Your eyes narrowed, following them as they approached. 

“Ah, this is Y/N. Our resident non-believer.” Sister Catherine gave you a teasing smile as the strangers took you in, no doubt wondering about your outfit of a cut off tank top, leather jacket, and black distressed jeans that disappeared into well worn combat boots. 

“I believe, sister.” You shot back. “I just don’t go about it with a constant stick up my—” Sister Catherine cleared her throat sharply and pinned you down with a look. “Sorry.” You muttered, the grin you wore anything but. Risking a glance at Father Daryl found one corner of his mouth lifted in a smirk.

Curiouser and curiouser. 

You stood but remained inside as the group was led away. You didn’t miss Father Daryl sparing you one last glance over his shoulder. 

After Compline, when the sisters had retired to their chambers for the Great Silence, you slipped out your door as you did most nights. A cigarette already hanging from your lips, you walked along the loggia, bringing your lighter up toward your mouth. You never lit the thing, eyes narrowed at the small cloud of smoke billowing up from the terrace below. 

You leaned over the thick banister, spotting Father Daryl easily. He was sitting on the back of one of the stone benches, his boots on the seat. Your first thought was to leave him be. It was late and engaging in conversation during the Great Silence was severely frowned upon. Even guests were asked to participate. 

But Father Daryl wasn’t just a guest. He was a priest. 

You kept your steps light as you descended the stairs and made your way outside. The tip of his cigarette glowed red before diminishing and he held the smoke in a little longer before exhaling. He was savoring it. 

He was flicking the ashes by the time you stood behind him, opening your mouth with snark on the end of your tongue. 

“Ain’t easy to sneak up on me.” He drawled, never turning to face you. 

You straightened, eyes blinking wide. “You’re American.”

“Get that a lot.” He mused in a low voice. Cigarette between his thumb and middle finger, he flicked it to disappear somewhere in the shadows. “Whaddaya want?”

“You’re a priest.” You stated plainly, crossing your arms over your chest. 

“Appears so.” The way he grumbled out the remark was unexpected. You crossed the last few steps and climbed into the back of the bench next to him, leaving ample space in between. 

You could feel his eyes on you though he had yet to move. “You’re smoking. Didn’t you take a vow to refrain from voluntary destruction of your body or some shit?”

One corner of his mouth twitched into a smirk as he pointed toward the dark, starry sky. “We got a arrangement.”

“Uh huh. And what about the Great Silence?” You probed further. 

“Th’fuck’s that?” 

To your bewilderment, he didn’t bat an eye at what you initially presumed was a slip of the tongue, however unlikely. You were stunned into silence, mouth agape while continuing to stare at the man with eyes like saucers. When you never found words, he simply shrugged a shoulder and looked back to the stars. 

“S’diff’rent in America.”

You snapped your jaw shut with an audible click of your teeth. Something was definitely off here. You didn’t know much about the man in front of you but he was no priest. He didn’t seem to care much about hiding that fact either. You could sense he was dangerous. Anyone who would need a disguise yet care so little to keep it had to be. Still, you didn’t feel threatened. 

“I see.” You whispered, continuing to study him. He was an attractive man. Older than you, certainly. Your wandering gaze made it to his hand hanging off the end of his knee when you were struck with an idea. One that could benefit him but would definitely benefit you. 

After all, it had been a long, long time. 

“How different?” You asked, scooting close enough that your shoulders were nearly touching. He glanced down at the decreased space between the two of you and then looked at you from under his lashes. 

“Diff’rent. Why?”

“It’s just… we haven’t had a priest here in so long and…” you shifted to angle your knees toward him, giving him your best doe eyes, “would you take my confession, Father Daryl?”

His back went straight, jaw ticking with how hard he was clenching his teeth. “Nah. Don’t think that’s—”

“Please, Father! I don’t know how long I’ve got left in this world. None of us do. I’m so scared that if I don’t confess, I’ll—” You buried your face in your hands, shoulders trembling as small broken sobs escaped from between your fingers. 

“Okay, alright. Just… stop all that.” He made a gesture toward, well, you in general just as you lowered your hands to your lap. 

Gotcha.

“Follow me. I’ll show you to the confessional.” You hopped down from the bench, adding a bit of extra sway to your hips the moment you heard his boots against the concrete behind you. “We really should wait until tomorrow for this, rules and all.” You whispered as you guided him into the chapel. “I’m sure the sisters would understand, though, given I haven’t been the most…devout during my stay.”

Daryl simply nodded, shifting his weight from foot to foot under your gaze. “S’this the thing?” He motioned to the booth with a sweep of his hand, looking as if he might bolt at any given moment. 

“Mhm.” You nodded, opening the door for him to enter. The fact he didn’t yet realize he’d been busted was amusing, but you weren’t just out for a laugh. 

“Right.” He cleared his throat and stepped inside. With a sly grin, you followed right behind him and pulled the door closed with your back pressed against it. There was about enough room for him to turn and look at you with wide, blue eyes. “Pretty sure you’re s’posed to be on the other side.”

“Nah, I like this side.” You slipped off your jacket and pulled your shirt over your head, letting both fall to the small area by your feet. “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.” You purred as you pressed flush against him. Daryl held his hands out away from you as far as he could in the limited space. “What’s wrong, Father? Don’t you want me?”

“Ya know I ain’t no priest.”

“Mhm.” You ran your thumb over his bottom lip while your tongue traced your own. “If you don’t want me, I can go. Do you want me to go?” 

“No.”

“Then sit down and let me tell you my sins.” He allowed you to grip his shoulders and push him onto the small bench. With hardly enough room to bend, you had to do some maneuvering to toe off your boots and shimmy your jeans down your legs to lift your feet out of them, pulling the rosary Sister Catherine had given you from the pocket first. 

Daryl was watching you silently. When you twisted an arm behind yourself and unclasped your bra, his hands moved to his belt buckle. You didn’t wait and straddled his lap wearing nothing but your modest cotton panties. He was still working at his zipper when your clothed cunt brushed the top of his knuckles. 

“Damn, woman, ain’t even touched ya yet.” His trousers were open but his cock was still held captive in the confines of his underwear. 

“I’ve been a bad girl, Father.” You purred, rolling your hips against his groin as your mouth slanted over his. He responded with equal fervor, licking your bottom lip before tugging it with his teeth. You couldn’t have stopped the full body shiver if you tried. A gloved hand palmed your breast, his bare fingertips warm as they rolled and pinched your nipples. “I’ve lusted after a man. A dangerous man.”

With a smile against his mouth, you worked a hand between your bodies and into his pants, stroking him languidly while you draped the rosary over his head, twisting it to press tightly against his throat. Daryl growled, his hips bucking into your hand when you pulled him free. 

Large hands drifted over your ribs and down to your hips, fingers dipping into the waistband of your panties. “Off.” He demanded leaning forward to capture your lips as he pulled the garment down over your ass, holding you steady while you lifted one leg and then the other, letting them dangle from your ankle. 

You didn’t wait, found that you didn’t want to; sinking onto him with your jaw slack and eyes closed. The initial stretch burned, it had been so long since you’d taken a lover. Daryl filled you perfectly, your dripping cunt molding around his length. 

“Fuck.” He breathed, his head falling back against the wall. Apparently it had been a while for him as well. “You’re fuckin’ tight.”

You smirked and rolled your hips, gasping when his fingertips pressed into the skin there. “Such language, Father. So unbecoming.” A moan punched out of you when he thrust upwards, jarring you suddenly but hitting that spot inside you that made your toes curl. 

“Shuddup.” He snapped. His hands slid around to cup your ass, kneading and spreading you open, digging in his fingertips to manage a firm hold. With his help, you set a brutal pace, moans and whimpers echoing in the empty chapel. 

You twisted the rosary again, the beads digging into his throat. Using it as a leash, you pulled him to you, licking inside his mouth. “Fuck, you feel amazing.” You keened, enjoying the painful grip digging into your ass that only tightened with your words. 

Daryl growled, the sound strained against the pressure on his throat. His face was slightly red from exertion and lack of oxygen, but the twitch of his cock within you didn’t lie. He liked it. 

You felt the scorching heat begin pooling in your belly, the frantic way you were riding him quickly coaxing your orgasm to the surface. The twitch and slow pulse moving against your velvety walls gave away that he was soon to follow. His jaw was set, grunts and breathy whimpers spilling out of him each time your ass slapped his clothed thighs. 

Biting your lip, you stared into his lust blown eyes before placing your mouth directly in front of his. “For Thee have I kept the purity of my body, and to Thee have I entrusted my soul; wherefore, preserve Thou Thy lamb, O good Shepherd.” Making a choked noise against the rosary constricting even tighter, Daryl used his hold on your ass to lift you, pounding up into you from below. Your words were jarred and fragmented, breaths coming faster as you neared the precipice. “Do not permit…the beast which seeketh to devour me…to consume me, and…grant me to prevail over the evil desires of my flesh!” The last word broke off into a shout of his name. Seconds later, you felt him pulsing within you, warmth spreading and coating your walls while your pussy milked him dry. 

Panting, you released your grip on the rosary and fell against his shoulder, your body moving back and forth with each heaving breath he managed. “Amen.” He croaked. You chuckled but remained as you were for a moment, relishing the feel of him softening inside you. Letting him cum in you was probably one of the worst decisions you’d ever made but you had a track record of those a mile long. “Don’t think ya can say enough’a them hail Mary’s or whatever for what just happened.”

This time you gave a hearty laugh, sitting up on his lap while he slipped out of you. You kept him pinned where he sat but he didn’t seem to mind at all. In fact, he appeared to be quite content. Holding onto the silly scarf he wore, you leaned back to grab your jacket, smiling when his hands came up to ensure you didn’t fall. 

Plucking a cigarette from the coat pocket, you dropped it back to the floor and struck the lighter, inhaling as the paper lit up and burned down.  You even felt inclined to share, turning your hand to let him have a draw after every one of your own. 

“I hope you realize,” you paused to blow out the smoke, “that I’m coming with you when you leave.” His brow drew inward as he took the offered hit. 

“Ya don’t even know me or what we’re doing.”

You shrugged. “Doesn’t matter. Sick of being cooped up here.” The man hummed, but didn’t exactly agree. “Look, you can let me go with you willingly, or I can sneak off and follow you afterward. Your pick.”

He stared for a moment, eyes narrowed behind the smoke that billowed from his mouth. “Don’t leave me much of a choice, does it?”

“Nope.” You grinned. “Besides, I may need to confess every once in a while.” 

[sebastian-stans-lovelywife]

It must feel amazing to be fucked by a beefy guy with a huge cock. I mean Norman Reedus 😍

[fathersonholygore]

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon 1x02 "Alouette"

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon 1×02: “Alouette” Directed by Daniel Percival Written by David Zabel & Jason Richman * For a recap & review of the premiere, click here. * For a recap & review of 1×03, click here. A flashback of Isabelle in better times, before the world collapsed in a mess of blood and violence and zombies. She was in a club having while New Order blasted through the speakers. She…

[dilfhouseofhorror]

Daryl in season 3 episode 5 is probably the hottest he's ever looked omg. him caring for Judith and feeding her and giving her a nickname. rocking her and shushing her 😭😭😭😭 he's so amazing bro.

like him looking out for Rick and Carl and being a father to Judith when Rick was too out of his mind to do anything. LIKE he found out Jude needed formula and IMMEDIATELY!!!! he was like "nope. not her. we're losing daylight people let's go." LIKE UGHHEHSHSHDJD I LOVE YOU

[karlurbanism]

Happy Father's Day, Daryl Dixon 🖤 💙

Family's more than just - DNA. It's about... people who care and take care of each other.

Leroy Jethro Gibbs (NCIS)

[betyloca]

twd characters with a silent s/o

daryl dixon

• He noticed at camp that you were very quiet or shy.

• When you sat down to eat around the fire with the camp, everyone was talking but you just watched without making a sound.

• until one day you were sitting next to him while he was telling you random things.

until I asked you why you never spoke

- Hey, why don't you talk, are you shy or something?

when I noticed that you took out a notebook and wrote in it

-* showing what it says* I am mute due to an accident that damaged my vocal cords but I am not deaf

• Since then he has been more attached to you, teaching you how to use weapons.

• since you are mute you have the advantages of being more agile without being heard

• teaches you how to use his crossbow

• he starts to get attached to you and always asks to go with you when you have to go get supplies

Rick grimmes

• He was an officer so he realized when he arrived at the camp that you weren't talking.

• By noticing that behavior more, I understood that you were mute.

• He would come to you if you needed help with something, which you always responded with a simple nod of the head.

• I started practicing sign language to communicate with you.

- If you need anything, let me know* communicating in signs*

- * while smiling * I am mute, not deaf, how do you think I can hear others when they talk to me * making signs *

-ohh

- *signing* well the intention is what counts

• well this way they have an advantage when they have to make an ambush

• he likes how well you get along with carl

• whenever they go to look for supplies he has you by the hand so you don't get lost

Gabriel stokes

• this man thought you were shy

• when he sat with you and talked to you you never spoke

• He thought you didn't like him until Carol told him you were mute.

• He started to get closer to you by asking if you didn't mind, you just answered no with your head.

• likes to spend time with you at church

• reads the Bible to you when you have nothing to do

- Are you sure you won't get bored?

- *Shaking his head*

- okay where was I?

• he likes to walk with you in Alexandria when it's night because he's so quiet

• gives you his bible when he goes to get supplies

• He worries when you leave but when you return he is very happy and hugs you.

Merle dixon

• at first he didn't realize how quiet you were and he didn't even care

• Until I started flirting with you I noticed that you never complained but you did blush.

• so I started doing it more often until I made some jokes

• one night when the others were sleeping you were outside your tents while he was talking

• until he told something funny that he saw that you were laughing but you didn't make a sound

- Hey sugar, you're mute, aren't you?

-*nodding*

- ohh I see that doesn't stop me from making you smile, don't you believe, sweetheart?

• He thinks it's an advantage that you're mute, so just like Daryln, he teaches you to be agile without being seen.

• teaches you how to use weapons while whispering double meanings in your ear

• he thinks it's better for you to sleep in his tent than in yours in case something happens and he can't hear you and why does he worry?

• fights with anyone who makes fun of your condition

• whenever they go by car to get supplies he has a hand on your thigh to calm you down

[darylsdeadboy]

daryl's sweet little boy 🧸

masterlist

Daryl woke up to the sound of clinking in the bathroom. It was early in the morning, the sun just starting to rise and shine through the curtains. Nobody was usually up this early.

He shuffled out of bed with a grunt and sauntered to the bathroom, placing his hand on the cold metal knob, twisting it open. There he found his 'girl', face scrunched up, tears running down her chubby baby cheeks, clippers in her hand. Her hair was clumpy and shorter, pieces of it on the floor from where she attempted to cut it.

"Whatcha' doin?" he said out loud, pulling his girl closer by the shoulder, using his thumb to wipe the tears from her eyes.

She sniffled, trying to speak through her tears. "Dada, I don' wanna be a girl," she whimpered, clinging onto Daryl like her life depended on it.

Daryl hummed deeply, pulling him into his chest, stroking his hair to calm him. There was a long string of silence before he spoke. "Here, gimme tha', baby."

He took his face out of Daryl's chest with a sniffle and handed him the clippers, still on and vibrating in his hand.

Daryl took him by his forearm and gently pulled him further into the bathroom, so the mirror was in front of them.

"Stay still, 'kay?" he uttered, putting the clippers up to his boy's hair and starting to shave, chunks of it falling to the tile ground, each stroke making the once nonexistent joy grow bigger in his boy's heart.

Daryl switched the clippers off, the buzzing sound that once fulfilled the room coming to an end. The tears on his boy's face were dry by now, a big smile spread across his baby face.

Daryl smiled back, looking into the mirror and running a hand through his now short hair. "Ya like it?"

"Mhm!"

"Thought ya would, sweet boy."

He was Daryl's boy, and Daryl's boy forever.

inspo: @norman-fucking-reedus

it changes from she to he because you know TRANS, just incase your confused

[etclouie]

hi your story about daryl x reader and their kids in the morning was so cute!!! can you write some more about what domestic life is like with daryl???

ᯓ★ fem!reader

ᯓ★ written headcanon style

ᯓ★ also started writing a complete diff thing for this at first, so excuse the amount of time it's took me

ᯓ★ main masterlist | reference post here

ᯓᡣ𐭩 i think daryl would be really protective of his family, so when anyone new shows up at alexandria he wants to sheild his little family until he deems that the new people are safe

ᯓᡣ𐭩 personally, i pin daryl as a girl dad (mostly), so his little girl has him wrapped around her finger. but he doesn't complain, because she's also a daddy's girl. they're best friends, and inseparable

ᯓᡣ𐭩 if daryl has some time when he's not out on runs or scouting for people with aaron, i think he'd be at home playing with your kids. has them giggling at whever it is, no hesitation. their laughter is one noise he loves hearing, especially throughout your house

ᯓᡣ𐭩 he for sure is always on bedtime duty, loves reading his kids books and letting them cuddle up to him as he does. occasionally stutters over a word but they're there helping him figure it out, no judgment from them

ᯓᡣ𐭩 if you go out on a run, either with or without him, and find matching pjs for your whole family, he'll most definitely wear them. he loves it, even if he doesn't show it verbally, his actions show it

ᯓᡣ𐭩 with alexandria's solar panels and the electricity, daryl makes it his mission to show his kids movies. purposefully looks for dvds when out on runs, even more so, looks for movies he knows his kids will like

ᯓᡣ𐭩 firm believer that daryl would've found all of the scooby doo dvds and turns his kids into fans of the franchise, hates to admit it but daryl also has a favourite scooby doo movie (it's the goblin king)

ᯓᡣ𐭩 he's not one for cooking, but will happily make breakfast if you're asleep still and your kids are up, even though i feel as if he's not a breakfast person himself. but he doesn't want his kids thinking breakfast is skippable, will always eat something with them, even if it's just toast

ᯓᡣ𐭩 if he's in alexandria and his kids need him, he's there. no doubt. whatever it is, he'll always be there, even if they just want a hug or to show him a drawing. he'll drop anything for his babies

ᯓᡣ𐭩 i feel as if daryl is a big cuddler, will steal as much time as he can in the morning to simply just cuddle with you. at home, if the kids are occupied, he's glued to you. arms around your waist and chin on your shoulder, he'll follow you around as if he never wants to let you go

ᯓᡣ𐭩 he'll try and quit smoking when you first have kids, but with the habit and stress of the fallen world he always ends up having a smoke to calm down, but he'll never ever smoke in front of your kids. doesn't want to teach them that habit in case they inhabit it from him

ᯓᡣ𐭩 i think daryl's always liked watching the sun rise and set, so when you both started dating wherever the group was he'd want to watch it with you. so when you started a family, i feel as if he implimneted that into your routine. he dedicates a day that he isn't out doing stuff, you're all sat watching the sun set before he makes dinner with you and then you're all cuddled up on the couch under a blanket watching a movie. it's the simplest things he needs in life

ᯓᡣ𐭩 having a family is singlehandedly one of the best things for daryl, it gives him the stability he needs and gives him a new purpose in life. he wouldn't change his little family for the world.

requests are open here !

[wife-of-all-dilfs]

i want him to teach me everything he knows; to tell me all his stories and experiences he's ever had, even the most unnecessary and pointless ones.

[jamiejabbers]

Unseen Bonds

Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Daughter Reader

(this is my first time writing please don’t hate but I’ll take any tips! hope you enjoy, xx)

The afternoon sun dipped behind the hills of Hershel’s farm, casting long shadows across the field. Daryl leaned against the porch railing, his eyes fixed on the treeline, though his mind wasn’t on walkers. It was on the girl he’d barely known how to raise.

Harley sat a few feet away, perched on the edge of the steps, her blonde hair tangled in the wind. She stared down at the ground, tracing patterns in the dirt with the toe of her boot. She was silent, as she often was, except when she was with Carl Grimes. Daryl watched as Carl approached her, carrying a small rock he’d found by the creek.

“Hey, Harley,” Carl said, a grin breaking across his face. “Look what I found. It’s got this weird shape, kinda like a dinosaur tooth, maybe.”

Harley looked up, her blue eyes brightening just a bit. “That’s not a dinosaur tooth, Carl,” she replied, a small smile tugging at her lips. “It’s a piece of quartz. Probably got chipped off from one of the bigger rocks by the river.”

Carl’s face flushed a little, embarrassed, but he shrugged. “Well, maybe you can teach me about rocks sometime,” he said.

“Maybe,” Harley replied with a shrug, but there was a playful glint in her eyes.

Daryl turned his gaze back to the woods. He wasn’t sure how to reach her, how to fix what Merle had broken in her. He’d tried to shield her from his brother’s rough ways, but she’d seen too much, heard too much, for him to ever pretend things were normal. She was smart, street-smart, like he was, and maybe that was part of the problem. She’d grown up too fast.

He saw Carl whisper something to her, and she laughed — a soft, sweet sound he rarely heard from her. His heart clenched in his chest. He wondered if he’d ever hear her laugh like that with him.

He grunted, turning away, but Harley’s voice stopped him.

“Daddy?” she called, her voice soft but clear.

Daryl turned back, surprised. She rarely addressed him so directly.

“Can I help you with something? Maybe... go hunting later?” she asked, her tone hesitant, like she was testing the waters.

Daryl blinked, taken aback. He scratched the back of his neck, trying to hide the small flicker of hope rising in his chest. “Yeah… yeah, alright. Could use another set of eyes out there. You gotta be quiet, though.”

Harley smiled, just a little. “I can be quiet.”

Carl grinned. “She’s better than anyone,” he added proudly.

Daryl gave a short nod, trying to act casual, but inside, he felt something shift — a small crack in the walls between them. Maybe, just maybe, they could find a way to bridge the gap that had always been there. He’d never been good with words, but maybe he didn’t need to be. Maybe showing her how much he cared in his own way was enough.

“Come on, then,” Daryl said, turning toward the woods. Harley stood, handing Carl the rock with a grin before trotting down the steps to join her father. She fell into step beside him, quiet but close.

For now, it was enough. They walked side by side into the thickening shadows, knowing that in this broken world, they’d face whatever came together, one step at a time.

[angelwings-crossbowstrings]

I am at an impasse with both Father Daryl and sub!Daryl one shots. Struggling to decide on the ideas I have for both.

[mymanreedus]

[sheriffgrimes-archerdixon]

hii!!

could you do one where daryl and rick are like father figures to the reader? she goes to try to kill negan instead of carl and when she gets back rick and daryl are really mad and she gets into an argument with them?

that’s it!!🩷

Hi! Thank you so much for the request!!! 🖤🧟‍♀️💕

A/N: it’s been like MONTHS since I’ve written so sorry for literally disappearing, but thank you all for the love! Love you all. Sorry for how long this took to get out… but I’m finally finishing it at like 1am after so many weeks… so please excuse any spelling errors! Tysm. I adore all of you xx

Rick + daryl x fem! Reader (reader is 19)

Trigger warnings: argument, zombie stuff, gore, usual twd stuff. If any of it discomforts you please read at your own discretion!

Pinky promise

You knew it was a dangerous mistake. You shouldn’t of been so ambitious. But Negan deserved death and you believed you could kill him… but it all became clear that it was a mistake. You had made a dangerous and incredibly stupid decision and you knew as soon as you got home Rick and Daryl would certainly have a go at you if not kill you then and there for being so reckless. You knew you were absolutely insane for doing something so unthinkable but Negan had to die. Rick was taking his sweet time and Negan was just going to get stronger, and that scared you, so you wanted to take it into your own hands and kill the man yourself…

And so here you were gun in hand, pointing it at the clear sheet covering the back of the truck your finger trembling slightly as you waited for the voices to get closer. “There isn’t enough in the truck, we’ll have to go out again. Get more supplies and shit. Alexandria is so big yet they can’t even supply us enough shit.” “Yeah… don’t know why Negan won’t just kill them all. That way we can actually have a good home…” the voices spoke back and forth and you tightened your hold on the gun jaw clenched tightly watching as the blurry figures got closer and as a hand poked in through the clear sheet you pulled the trigger bullets spitting out as the men began shouting, followed by multiple ‘thuds’ proving you had killed a few of the bastards, you continued shooting, even as you jumped out of the truck the bullets flying around mercilessly- some saviours dropping to the floor, dead, and others just falling for the sake of their lives. Your eyes were narrowed as you breathed heavily your teeth slightly gritted together before suddenly a body shoved against yours, Dwight knocking you down onto your back, your gun falling from your hand as you groaned out glaring at the man. “Y/n….” A voice sung out, mockingly and your eyes snapped to meet with Negans. His hazel eyes gleamed with amusement, Lucille lightly hung over his shoulder as he grinned at you “didn’t I get my point across to you before that I really do not appreciate my people being killed…” he spoke your eyes narrowing as you scowled at him. He was a rotten bastard and deserved to be knocked down a peg or two, and so that’s why you abruptly tried to grab your gun again only for Dwight to kick it out of the way “not so fast” he muttered glaring down at you, Negan staring at you the amusement seemingly growing further and further before he exhaled

“I like you, you don’t mess around do you? You just do… I like that…” he smirked before stopping just in front of you holding his hand out for you to take “you’ve actually got balls… unlike someone else we know.” He spoke that stupid fucking grin remaining on his face and you just glared hoping to punch his teeth in, but instead you reached out, grabbing his outstretched hand before he leaned back pulling you up with his movement as you got onto your feet your eyes boring into his with anger “we were planning on heading to Alexandria today so you’re in luck. I’ll get you home safely.” “Rick isn’t home. He’s out.” You spoke, that wasn’t the truth, rick was at home but you didn’t want to see him… not when you know he will indefinitely be beyond mad at you. “Oh isn’t he? How disappointing. Guess I’ll have to wait around with you then huh?” And that’s when you realised just how much you had screwed up… Negan wasn’t going to kill you because he knew that Rick was going to get angry at you… “god dammit…” you whispered under your breath, Negan smiling still before he turned around “c’mon. Follow me. I’ll give you a tour of the sanctuary…” and so that’s exactly what happened, you were shown around, introduced to a few scary people and then given some food much to your surprise… it was odd. Being looked after for by your friends’ killer. It made you feel sick but what made you feel even sicker was what was happening right now… you were sat in the truck beside Negan, driving down the familiar road leading to Alexandria. Your heart was drumming in your chest your face pale and lips slightly parted… you were in deep shit and you knew it.

Breathing soon became nonexistent, your lips slightly parted eyes wide as you watched multiple people on outpost begin to shout… oh dear god. Heavy breaths slowly left your lips your eyes filled with complete fear… sure Daryl being angry at you was enough but Rick too- you couldn’t handle both of their wrath’s. You didn’t even want to experience it but you knew you were going to experience it. “Are you coming into to talk to them?” You soon asked glancing at the man, his hands which were warmed by the leather gloves he wore squeezed at the steering wheel and he grinned at you soon shoving his foot onto the brakes the truck coming to a screeching halt just in front of the gates leading into Alexandria “nah, kid. That isn’t my shit to do. You pulled a stupid fuckin’ decision and now you’re gonna face the consequences. I told you I don’t ap-“ “appreciate you killing my men I know.” You cut him off glaring into his eyes the man looking somewhat impressed before he raised his brows “at least you can learn.” He chuckled out looking forwards as the gate was slowly pulled open “go on then, your friends are waiting.” He spoke and you looked to the gate as well seeing Rick, hands on his hips, jaw tightly clenched and eyes a sea of worry. You glanced back to Negan knowing he wasn’t going to help before you pushed the door open only for the asshole to grab your wrist forcing you to stop “you not gonna thank me for bringing you home safe and sound?” He asked with a cocky grin and you glared at him “thank. you.” You spat out through gritted teeth and he smirked “you’re welcome.”

You then jumped out of the truck before storming towards the gate of Alexandria your eyes landing on Rick and a very infuriated yet terrified looking Daryl but you ignored them- you didn’t want to deal with their anger right now. “Y/n where the hell have you been?” Rick asked, hands remaining on his hips his eyes practically piercing into your soul yet you refused to speak or even look at him because well… let’s face it… he was terrifying. “Y/n where the hell do ya think you’re goin’ huh?” Daryl soon asked gruffly and you glanced at him “home. You wanna give me a lecture. Fine. But not in front of everyone.” You snapped, both men sharing a look, as if questioning whether you had really just used that tone with them but nonetheless they followed after you, you attempted to slam the front door but Rick was quick to catch it before it could latch “cut that attitude out right now, y/n.” Rick spoke calmly his body language however far from calm “I don’t understand why you’re both so unhappy! Jesus Christ can’t I try and help out!” Rick and Daryl stood side by side shoulders brushing against each other and Rick tilted his head slightly “do you realise how incredibly foolish it was to go out there and do… whatever you did… do you?” He raised his brows his blue eyes piercing into your soul and you rolled your eyes “ah ah, no, y/n, eyes on me.” He demanded and you looked at him “you aren’t hearing me- you could’ve been killed. What you did was very stupid. Irresponsible.” He spoke and you glared into his eyes “well I wasn’t! I’m here- am I not? I’m fine!” Daryl then took a step forwards “enough. It doesn’t matter whether you’re fine or not. What matters is the fact that you pulled some stupid death wish shit…” his eyes searched yours before he shook his head “it was stupid. You might’ve been helping or thinking you were helping… but what would we do if Negan brought back your dead body huh?” Daryl asked and you looked away, uncomfortable at that question, because you knew there was no right answer to such a question

“What did you do?” He soon asked and you looked back at him “machine gunned down a bunch of his men.” You murmured shamefully as you looked down, Daryl almost unresponsive whereas Rick was immediately pinching the bridge of his nose his eyes squeezed shut before he exhaled loudly showing his pure discomfort of the entire situation “oh my god…” he squeezed his eyes shut even more before looking at you “how irresponsible are you? Are you unaware of the fact that Negan has killed many people from this community?” Ricks tone was dangerous, frustrated, bordering on the line of anger and protectiveness “what do I have to do to get it through to you that we’re working together to make this safe! We’re doing everything we can y/n,” “no we aren’t! What about the lives we promised we’d get justice for! Have they just all gone down the drain?! We can’t just keep up this bullshit! Either he dies or we die! He’s overpowering us Rick! We need to do som-“ Rick soon held his hand up at you “no! Don’t you-“ “y/n. You’re getting ahead of yourself.” The man reminded you and you breathed heavily your eyes rage full Daryl moving behind you as he slowly rubbed up and down your back trying to sooth you yet your whole body felt as if it was on fire “we get that you want to protect us and this community but-“ “no! It isn’t just that Rick! It isn’t! I want to get- I- I want…” your voice cracked as your heart began to slowly split into pieces ricks expression softening, sure he had seen you open up before but not like this… he hadn’t seen you like this often… nor had Daryl- it surprised both men. “Tell me.” Rick spoke taking a step forwards this time, as he slowly reached a hand out resting his hand atop of your shoulder “I-…. I…” Rick remained silent searching your eyes allowing you to take your time watching as your face contorted in all ways imaginable the anguish, pain and fear slowly creeping up on you “he killed Glenn! He killed Abraham! He killed our friends! Shouldn’t we be trying to kill him! He killed Glenn! He killed-… he killed the guy who saved your dumbass!” You yelled shoving his hand off of your shoulder, ricks expression showing the pain, he hadn’t fully healed- in fact he hadn’t healed at all. He hadn’t allowed himself to grieve anyone’s deaths but especially Glenn’s. Or Abraham’s. He was too busy being a leader. Too busy taking care of his people.

“Y/n we can’t change that… I’m sorry… but we can’t… but what we can’t change either is the fact that if you died we would’ve lost a key part of Alexandria…-“ “we’ve already lost a key part!” Your voice cracked and Daryl stared at you “you’re both bullshit! I can take care of myself! Why don’t you think I can’t take care of myself?!” Your voice grew angrier before you ran off upstairs Rick running a hand over his face and Daryl just watching you run off “don’t go after her…” he shook his head “let her cool off. And you cool off too” Rick spoke and Daryl nodded knowing he was right. He needed to calm down… if he didn’t he would’ve said something he regretted.

A couple of minutes passed- maybe five, or even ten, before Daryl was sent up to console you. You didn’t even hear him come in but you felt the bed dip down before you heard his soft breathing “I did what I thought was best.” You spoke more softly and Daryl nodded “I know… but it was also…” “stupid I know… don’t need to tell me again…” you murmured softly and Daryl exhaled softly “you know we just care about you. That’s why we’re so worried about you… you matter to us.” His hand rubbed up and down your back slowly and gently as you remained curled up in a ball arms wrapped around yourself weakly his touch soft and caring, his rough calloused hands rough against your skin but you didn’t care. He was comforting you… that’s all that really mattered.

“I just-… why do you keep treating me like a damn child?” You asked clearly upset about that and Daryl frowned slightly his stern features growing more soft as he saw the true confusion and frustration in your eyes “because we’ve lost people, Y/n…. Glenn, Abraham, Sophia, Dale, Hershel, Merle, Olivia… too many people to count..” he fell silent before speaking again not allowing you to say anything “and we can’t lose someone else. The stakes are set high. I wouldn’t know what to do if I lost you, Y/n. Rick wouldn’t either… today was stupid… sure you did what you thought was best but it was a little bit silly… but there’s always room for improvement” your head slowly turned to look at him a small smile tugging at your lips before you laughed softly “who knew you could be so sentimental, Dixon” you murmured and he stared at you unamused “I’m being serious,”

You smiled softly “I know… but I promise I won’t do this again alright? It was stupid… I know but it won’t happen again…” Daryl stared at you with a ‘yeah, sure’ look before you rolled your eyes soon holding your hand out towards him sticking your pinky out at him “fine. Pinky promise…” you raised your brows the older man staring a softness soon consuming his eyes before a little smile tugged at his lips, shaking his head but nonetheless he locked his pinky with yours

“Pinky promise.”

[happy74827]

Out of Reach

[Rick Grimes x Female!Reader]

Synopsis: Finding the right moment is a hard thing to do. Especially when it involves the man who's in charge.

WC: 4226

Category: Slight Fluff, Pining

Fair warning, he might be slightly OOC, but honestly, who cares. It's Rick mf Grimes. Just look at his arms, you'll be fine.

『••✎••』

It was a strange feeling, really.

Having him so close and yet so far away.

You could almost taste him on your tongue, feel his skin on your fingertips. The heat of his breath on your neck. His lips ghosting over your own. It was torturous to be so close, but not close enough.

You ached for his touch, longed to run your fingers through his hair. He was so tantalizingly close. His mouth inches from yours, the smell of whiskey and gunpowder clinging to his clothes. You wanted nothing more than for him to take you in his arms and hold you close, but you couldn't bring yourself to say the words. You didn't want to make him uncomfortable or make him run.

You weren't even sure if he wanted you the way you wanted him, but the way he was looking at you… The way he was touching you… The way his lips hovered so close to yours like he wanted to kiss you but couldn't. He had to know how you felt, right? He had to feel the same way you did.

Maybe you were imagining it all; maybe it was just wishful thinking, but it was enough to drive you mad.

He was so close and yet so far away, and you knew that if you didn't do something about it soon, you would lose your mind. Maybe that's what pushed you over the edge, the thought of losing him before you even had a chance to have him. Maybe that's what drove you to finally take matters into your own hands.

"Rick."

Your voice was barely a whisper, but it was enough to capture his attention. He looked up from his cup, his blue eyes locking with yours, and suddenly, it felt as if the world had stopped spinning. Time stood still as you looked into each other's eyes, neither of you moving, neither of you breathing.

He had never looked more handsome than he did at that moment. The sunrise danced across his face, casting shadows over his features. His eyes were so bright and blue, you could get lost in them forever. His hair was mussed and disheveled, the way it always was when he'd been out hunting or fighting the dead. You'd never seen anything more beautiful in your life.

"Yeah?" He said, his voice barely a whisper. He was still in a sleep-like state, but he was slowly coming back to himself. He rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand as if to wake himself up. "What's goin' on?"

You weren't sure what to say. Your brain had stopped working the moment you locked eyes with him. All you could think about was him, his smell, his touch, his taste… You were so distracted that you hardly even registered his question. All you could do was stare.

"It's Judith, isn't it? You heard her cryin'?" His voice was groggy, his words slightly slurred, but there was still an undertone of worry in his tone. "I know, it's awful. It's her new thing now. I haven't slept more than an hour at a time for weeks."

Rick's words were muffled as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes, but they were enough to break the spell that had been cast upon you. You blinked rapidly, shaking your head as if to clear your thoughts.

"No, Rick," you said, taking a deep breath before continuing, "it's not Judith. It's you."

He was looking at you with those beautiful eyes, but the longer you looked at him, the less you wanted to look away. It felt like an eternity had passed while the two of you stared at each other, but in reality, it had only been a few minutes.

Rick raised an eyebrow as he continued to stare at you with a confused look on his face. He opened his mouth to speak, but he was interrupted before he could say a word.

"What do you mean, 'it's him'?" Michonne asked, causing you to jump in your place. You hadn't even noticed her arrival. She must have been standing there for some time now, watching the two of you stare at each other, but you were too busy being captivated by Rick's eyes to even notice her. "What's going on?"

You weren't sure how much Michonne had overheard. Maybe she'd only heard Rick's question, or maybe she'd heard the rest of your conversation. All you knew was that there was no way you were going to confess now. Not in front of Michonne. You would never hear the end of it.

"It's nothing, really," you said, trying to avoid eye contact with the both of them, but you could feel their gazes burning into the back of your head. "I just… never mind."

Rick looked at you curiously as he tried to piece together what you'd been saying, but you didn't want to talk about it anymore. You just wanted to leave, to escape his questioning stare, and maybe Michonne's too. She looked like she had a lot of questions.

"You sure?" Rick asked, but you didn't answer. You simply shook your head, letting him know you weren't going to elaborate on your cryptic words before you turned and left without another word. The embarrassment was written all over your face, but you were just thankful that Rick hadn't pressed the issue.

He looked a bit confused, but he didn't follow you. He knew better than to pry. Besides, it was early, and the last thing he wanted to do was start an argument when he was just trying to have a peaceful moment to collect his thoughts before Judith started up again.

Michonne, on the other hand, was far less concerned about your wellbeing and far more concerned about prying into your private conversation.

"What was that all about?" She asked as she approached Rick, her voice laced with intrigue as she sat down next to him. "Did she say something?"

"Nah," Rick replied, his gaze following you as you walked through the camp, "You didn't give her much of a chance."

Michonne sighed as she rested her chin in the palm of her hand. She was still clearly intrigued by your behavior, but Rick had already moved on. It seemed like the whole ordeal had gone over his head. Of course, it did.

Rick was always aware of his surroundings. He always had a clear head and was always paying attention. Even when he was asleep, he was still analyzing everything. Yet, he was completely oblivious to your feelings for him. For an ex-sheriff, he sure was stupid when it came to romance.

You'd been infatuated with Rick since you first met him, but at the time you'd only been friends with him and haven't realized it. But lately, these past few months you were finding yourself constantly daydreaming about him.

You always got lost in the little things, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled, the sound of his laugh, the way he would play with Judith, or the way his lips would quirk up when you teased him… You’d always find yourself staring at him, imagining what it would be like to kiss him, and it was becoming almost too much.

You'd always felt safe in his presence, like nothing could ever hurt you while he was around, but lately, you felt like the closer he got to you the further away he'd go. You loved his company, you craved his presence, but you couldn't help feeling like he was slipping through your fingers. Especially when everyone else in the world seemed to involve themselves in your private conversations.

Rick had told you that you could always talk to him about anything, but sometimes it felt like you couldn't talk to him about anything without someone overhearing. And even when you did have a chance to talk to him, you couldn't seem to find the words. Your mouth would open, but nothing would come out. The only thing you could seem to do was look into his eyes and fall deeper and deeper.

You still found it a miracle that he never called you out on it. You found it hilarious that he always thought he was so smooth, but he had no clue. Ah, the irony of it all.

"Are you sure it was nothing?"

You jumped at the sound of his voice, quickly turning to look at him over your shoulder. His eyes were narrowed, and his lips were pursed as he tried to read your face.

What happened with leaving it alone? Rick always left you alone when you were in one of your moods. He knew you didn't want to talk, so he just left you alone. Why was he trying to get you to talk this time?

"I mean, it sure looked like something to me," he continued, his voice gruff as he scratched at the back of his neck. "Was it, uh, somethin' I did?"

You weren't sure if he knew it or not, but he was beginning to make you feel guilty. You hated that he felt like he needed to apologize for every little thing he did, like he needed to apologize for existing. This man always had his head buried in the sand while lifting others above him.

Honestly, it was exhausting.

Rick looked at you like a wounded puppy dog as he awaited your answer, and you couldn't help but sigh. It was impossible to be angry with him, especially when he was being so sweet, but he needed to stop acting so guilty about everything all the time. He takes the blame for everything.

"No, Rick, it's not you," you assured, smiling weakly at him as you turned around to face him, "It was something I was going to tell you about, but I just…"

"Michonne? It was Michonne, wasn't it?" He said, eyes squinting as he looked at you. "You hesitated to tell me, and you didn't want Michonne to hear, so you just… decided to leave instead?"

Excluding his obliviousness to your emotions, Rick was a very smart man. Even in his sleepy state, he could put two and two together to get the most accurate answer possible. You weren't sure if you liked that or not.

"Yeah," you admitted, shrugging as you looked down at the ground. You had no idea why you were embarrassed. You could tell Rick anything, right? Yet, for some reason, you just felt… weird.

"So…" he began, pausing for a moment to clear his throat, "What was it that you didn't want Michonne listening in?"

Rick watched you expectantly, clearly curious, but you felt like a deer in the headlights. You knew he would never push you if you really didn't want to talk about it, but he was also one of the most curious people you'd ever known. He wouldn't leave it alone.

It was one of his best traits, honestly. He was always trying to figure everything out, to put the puzzle pieces together and see the big picture. You wished he would take his own advice.

"Well?" he said, interrupting your train of thought, "What were you trying to tell me?"

"It was…" you began, swallowing the lump in your throat. Your cheeks flushed, and your hands began to sweat, and you couldn't bring yourself to look at him as you spoke, "It was something that's been on my mind a lot lately."

Rick was looking at you expectantly as he awaited your explanation, but you weren't sure how much you wanted to tell him. It was still hard for you to find the words.

Rick sighed as he leaned back, resting his back against the nearest tree. His blue eyes locked with yours as he waited, the light from the sun illuminating him like some sort of mythological deity. He was breathtakingly beautiful.

You wanted to lose yourself in his eyes forever.

"You can tell me anything, you know?" He said, his voice low as he tried to catch your eye, but you refused to look at him. "I promise, I'm not gonna judge you."

"I know."

You were so grateful for him. He always listened, always supported you, always had your back, and you never felt more at ease than when you were with him. He was the reason you were alive, and you knew it. You owed him everything.

"Can you look at me?"

You were too embarrassed to look at him, so you shook your head, refusing to meet his gaze. You knew if you did, you would lose your nerve and run off like you always did. Rick always tried to coax you out of your shell, but you'd never had a problem doing it on your own before.

Rick sighed, but you could tell he wasn't annoyed. He was just tired.

"This really is hard for you. I thought you would've said it by now."

"You don't even know what I'm going to say," you replied, finally looking up at him. His hair was tousled and unkempt. The sun was still low in the sky, so his eyes looked like the deepest oceans. You wanted to drown in them. "Maybe it's better if I don't say anything."

Rick didn't reply, but he didn't stop looking at you. His eyes were so gentle, so soft. They were inviting, like the sweetest embrace, and you couldn't help but be lulled in.

"No, it's not." His voice came out like warm silk as if it had been dipped in molasses and was being rolled over your skin. "Trust me, it's not."

You scoffed, rolling your eyes as you turned away from him, "I know what you're trying to do, but it's not going to work."

"And what's that?" he asked, but you refused to meet his gaze.

"Acting like you already know what I'm going to say," you huffed, crossing your arms.

"What if I do?"

You shook your head as you tried to avoid eye contact, "No, I don't think you do. I think you're just hoping I'm gonna say it so you don't have to."

Rick let out a deep sigh, but you didn't dare look at him. "And you call me the oblivious one."

You laughed, finally looking at him. "Well, you are."

"Am I? Am I really? Because it sure feels like you're avoiding the question."

"Oh my God, Rick, I'm not avoiding the question." You laughed again as you rolled your eyes.

"Then why won't you answer?" He asked, looking at you expectantly. "Why won't you look at me?"

Rick looked like a child as he stared at you, his lips turned into a pout as he continued to play his part. You couldn't help but laugh again, but this time it was much louder.

"Stop trying to act like you already know—"

"—What? Like your eyes won't wander to my lips every time you're talking to me? Like I don't notice you biting your lip every time I smile at you? Like I don't see the way you stare at me when you think I'm not paying attention? Like I don't hear you when you wake up in the middle of the night and have to go take a piss?"

You weren't laughing anymore.

Rick was so close to you that you could feel the heat of his breath on your neck. He had you cornered, trapped between him and the tree behind you. He was so close that if you leaned forward, you'd fall into his arms. You could feel his hot skin through the thin material of your shirt. Your heart was beating rapidly in your chest, and your mouth was dry, and you were barely aware of the words you were saying.

"W-What are you talking about?" You stammered as you took a step back. Rick followed your movement, and you nearly stumbled into his chest. He placed his hand on the small of your back to steady you, but it sent tingles down your spine.

"You're a terrible liar and you're bad at hiding your feelings," he said, leaning down to whisper in your ear, "And I've always been good at reading people. Especially you, Miss Know-It-All."

Your heart was beating so hard, you were sure he could feel it pounding against his chest, and it felt like your knees were going to buckle at any second. Rick had backed you into a corner and was inches from your lips, but he had yet to close the gap. He was still waiting for your response.

"This is so embarrassing," you whined as you pushed against his chest, trying to push him away, but he held firm, not moving an inch.

"Why?" he asked, looking down at you with his soft blue eyes, "What are you so embarrassed about?"

"You… You know why," you mumbled, your face growing warm as he continued to look at you.

"Do I? I have to say, I'm a little confused here. Why don't you tell me? Why don't you use your words?"

You couldn't meet his gaze as you continued to play with the hem of your shirt, but Rick wasn't going to let you hide. He placed his hand under your chin, forcing you to meet his eyes. Even after he confessed that he could read you like a book, he still wanted you to use your words. Maybe it was just because he wanted to see you squirm.

Suddenly, your throat allowed you to speak. Argue even,

"You knew this entire time and yet you never said anything? You let me dance around it when all along you knew how I felt. It's… humiliating, really. I can't believe you let me embarrass myself this entire time. You should've stopped me sooner."

Rick was looking at you with those beautiful eyes of his, and you felt like he was peering into your soul. He was trying to find the words to say, trying to find the right thing to say to make you feel better. But what was there to say?

"I thought you weren't going to judge me," you continued, sighing as you looked away from him.

"I'm not judging you," he whispered, leaning down to look at you, "I didn't judge you. Look, what I said moments ago, that was me teasing you. Truthfully, I was just waiting for you to say something. I mean, I could see it in your eyes every time you looked at me, and I… I just…" He let out a deep sigh, running his hand through his hair before he began again.

"I wasn't sure how you felt about me. I had a feeling, a feeling I decided to play on, but I wasn't completely sure. I wasn't sure if it was just my imagination." He shook his head as if to clear his thoughts before continuing, "And the last thing I wanted to do was scare you away. I was trying to let you work up the courage. I didn't want to rush you. Like I said, I know how to read people, and I was waiting to hear what you had to say."

He paused for a moment, looking into your eyes with that gorgeous gaze of his. He seemed to be searching for something in your expression, some sort of indication that you wanted him to continue. It made you feel like you were being examined under a microscope.

"I'm not very good at this," he finally said, his voice low as he continued, "The talking part, I mean. I don't do it well. It's the reason why Lori and I had issues in the end. We never had good communication. But I… I didn't want that to happen to us. Not with you. I care too much."

"So, technically, I was right," you said, trying to hide the smirk on your face.

Rick laughed, a deep and throaty laugh, as he shook his head. "Don't be so smug. You got your way."

"Yeah, I did."

Rick had his hand on the back of his neck as he looked at you expectantly, "So, what's your plan now? What are you gonna say? You were so against me acting like I knew what you were going to say that I'm just curious to know what you're going to say now. Do I want to hear it?"

You couldn't help but laugh. Of course, he'd want you to use your words. He'd tease you mercilessly if you tried to go silent again, so you decided to take the initiative and just say it already.

"I concur," you replied, smiling brightly at him. "There. I used words."

Rick chuckled, a soft and quiet sound that sent shivers down your spine. You could get drunk on the sound of his laugh alone. It was so gentle, so genuine. It was as sweet as honey, and you never wanted him to stop laughing. You wanted him to laugh forever.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," he said, rolling his eyes, "I get it. You got what you wanted. Can I ask what you were going to say before this all happened?"

"You said it already," you teased, raising an eyebrow at him, "Better than I could’ve."

Rick sighed as he looked down at you, "I really hate how clever you are sometimes. You always have a comeback. I just… I really want to know."

"Really? You want me to repeat myself? Hear me stutter and sweat all over the place? Just stand there looking like an idiot while you stand there looking all cool and collected?"

He laughed, a deep and throaty sound, as he placed his hand on your back. "Well, you already did that, but if you'd like to try again, I'd love to hear it."

You rolled your eyes, letting out a huff as you looked at him with narrowed eyes. He was standing so close to you, yet so far away. All you could do was stare at him as he looked down at you. It was a lot harder to confess your feelings when his gaze was piercing into your soul.

"Can you move?" You asked, motioning to his arm that was pinned between the two of you. He didn't reply. He simply looked at you for a moment, taking in your features, before moving his hand away. He was being gentle like he was afraid to touch you. His fingertips grazed your skin ever so slightly as he retracted his arm, sending shivers down your spine, and you were overcome with the urge to take his hand and hold it in yours.

"Are you going to make the first move now? Or am I gonna have to do all the work?" He asked, his lips quirking into that mischievous smirk you knew so well.

"Oh, shut it."

"Only if you-"

"Rick! I thought I heard your voice." Gabriel's voice cut through the air like a knife, and it took everything in you not to groan. You hadn't even heard his approach, and he was so loud it almost felt as if you'd been caught doing something you shouldn't. "I'm glad I found you."

"Yeah?" Rick said, clearing his throat as he turned around. He shot you a glance, an amused smile on his face, before turning his attention back to Gabriel. He really did know how you worked, didn't he?

"I've been meaning to talk to you for a while," Gabriel said, looking down at the ground with a sheepish smile on his face. He had been around long enough to know when to keep his mouth shut. "There's been something I wanted to discuss with you."

Rick furrowed his brow, glancing at you for a moment before nodding, "Yeah, of course."

"Would it be okay if we spoke in private?"

The shared look between the two of you was enough to burst into laughter, but you managed to bite your tongue. Rick, however, wasn't so lucky. He let out a quiet chuckle as he shook his head, trying to hide his amusement.

"Yeah, of course. No problem," he said, placing his hand on the small of your back as he began to walk away. He shot you another look over his shoulder, that smirk still on his lips. "I'll be back, okay?"

You wanted to tell him that you would be waiting for him, that you wouldn't leave without him, but you couldn't. Gabriel was already shooting you a questioning look from across camp, and you really didn't feel like explaining anything to him. You weren't even sure if you wanted to explain anything to yourself.

So instead, you watched as Rick walked away, his eyes locked on yours. His gaze burned into your skin, and it took everything in you not to run after him. You wanted to tell him that you'd be waiting for him. You wanted to tell him that you weren't going anywhere, but you couldn't find the words. So, you watched as he disappeared into the woods with Gabriel at his side

Once he was gone, you sighed, letting your head fall as you rubbed your temples.

Always so close, but yet so far away.