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wolvietxt · 5 months ago

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𝓣ENDER 𝓦OUNDS !

pairing : rick grimes x reader warnings : petnames, injury, implied age gap, lowk ooc wc : 1.2k

the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows through the dimly lit room. the aftermath of the day’s skirmish hung in the air - a tension that mixed with the smell of antiseptic. you leaned against the wall, cradling your injured arm close to your body, wincing every time you shifted. it felt like the weight of the world had settled on your shoulders, and you couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability that came with it.

“hey,” rick’s voice broke through your thoughts, soft but commanding. he stepped into the room, his brow furrowed with concern as he took in the sight of you. “how’re you holdin’ up?”

you shrugged, trying to play it off. “it’s just a scratch, rick. i’ll be fine.”

he crossed the room in a few long strides, his eyes scanning your face for any sign of discomfort. “you sure about that, sweetheart? looks worse than just a scratch to me.”

you rolled your eyes but felt your cheeks flush at the pet name. “i said i’m fine.”

“right,” he said, unconvinced, and gently reached out to examine your arm. his fingers brushed against your skin, and you shivered at the unexpected tenderness. “we need to clean this up.”

“do we have to?” you protested, instinctively pulling back. “i can do it myself.”

“not a chance,” he replied firmly but softened at the edges. “let me take care of you, okay? just this once.”

his gentle insistence caught you off guard. you wanted to argue, to insist you could handle it alone, but something in the way he looked at you, mixed with that tone of voice, made you reconsider. maybe it was the weariness from the day or the comfort of his presence that made you relent. you sighed, letting your arm drop slightly, and nodded.

“fine,” you muttered, a hint of defeat in your voice.

rick smiled, a mixture of relief and affection flashing across his face. “good girl.” his words hung in the air for a second, and your heart skipped a beat. a warm flush crept up your cheeks, and you felt heat radiate through your body. rick’s gaze sharpened, a teasing glint in his eyes. “you like that?” he asked, a smirk tugging at his lips. you opened your mouth to respond, but the embarrassment made you falter, and you could only manage a shy nod. “cute,” he said, his voice low and playful, clearly enjoying your reaction. the playful banter lightened the mood, and you felt a mix of flattery and bashfulness wash over you. he reached for a clean cloth, wetting it with some water before carefully dabbing it against your wound. you flinched, the sting causing you to bite your lip, but rick’s hand was steady and reassuring.

“sorry,” he murmured, his brow furrowing slightly as he concentrated. “i know it hurts. just a little longer, and then you’ll feel better.”

you watched him as he worked, surprised by how gentle he was. it was a side of him you hadn’t seen much - this nurturing instinct that shone through in the way he handled you. “i didn’t think you were the type to play nurse,” you almost whispered lightly, trying to break the thin layer of tension.

he chuckled softly, not looking up from his task. “ain’t that something? but you’re worth it, you know? can’t have you gettin’ worse on my watch.” his voice was warm, the sincerity in his words making your heart flutter.

as he finished cleaning the wound, he began to wrap it in a bandage, his movements careful and deliberate. “there we go. all fixed up. you feeling okay, sweetheart?” he said, his eyes sparkling with pride. “you’re a whole lot tougher than you look.”

“thank you, rick.” you replied, your voice softening, a shyness to your tone. the pet names rolled off his tongue like they were second nature, and you found yourself warming at the way he treated you.

“you just focus on resting now, alright?” he said, standing up straight and looking down at you with a protective gaze. “i’ll take care of the rest.”

“you’re not going to let me do anything, are you?” you said with a smile.

“not a chance,” he replied, crossing his arms over his chest, a playful challenge in his eyes. “it’s what i’m here for, darlin’. no arguments.”

you felt a flutter of warmth at his unwavering determination. there was a comfort in allowing him to take the lead, to let him be the one to shield you from the harshness of the world outside. “fine, i’ll be your patient for now,” you conceded, leaning back against the wall, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over you.

rick settled beside you, his presence solid and reassuring. “good choice,” he said with a grin. “just know that if anyone messes with you again, they’ll have to answer to me.”

“you really think you can take them all on?” you teased, feeling a bit more at ease.

“i ain’t worried about that,” he replied, a hint of confidence in his voice. “just don’t push yourself too hard, alright? let me help.”

you nodded, appreciating the way he cared for you. it was a new feeling, being treated with such gentleness, and as you sat together, you felt the tension ease from your body. maybe letting him take care of you wasn’t so bad after all.

“rick,” you said softly, glancing at him. “i didn’t think you’d be so… gentle.”

he turned to you, a curious look in his eyes. “why’s that?”

“i don’t know,” you shrugged, your voice almost a whisper. “you just seem so… tough.”

“i can be tough and still care, you know?” he replied, his tone serious but laced with warmth. “just ‘cause i’m a leader doesn’t mean i can’t look out for the people i care about.”

his words struck a chord within you, and you felt a rush of emotion at the honesty in his voice. “you really do care, don’t you?”

“of course i do,” he said, his gaze steady. “you’re important to me. it’s why i can’t stand to see you hurt. makes me feel… helpless.”

you swallowed hard, feeling a lump in your throat. “i’m sorry for making you worry.”

“don’t apologise,” he said firmly, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “just take care of yourself, ’nd i’ll be here to help. always.”

the tenderness in his touch sent shivers down your spine, and for a moment, everything else faded away. it was just the two of you in that small room, and in that moment, you felt an overwhelming sense of safety. “thank you, rick. really.”

“anytime, sweetheart,” he replied, giving you a small smile. “just know that you’re not alone in this. i’ve got your back.”

as the moments passed, you found yourself leaning into him, seeking comfort in his warmth. rick wrapped an arm around your shoulders, pulling you closer. “you need to rest, you know? i’ll keep watch,” he murmured, his voice low and soothing.

“i’ll try,” you said, your eyes fluttering shut as exhaustion took over. his presence was comforting, a protective barrier against the world outside.

“good,” he whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. “you’re safe here.”

and in that moment, with rick by your side, you felt more secure than you ever had. you knew that whatever happened next, you could face it together.

🌀 rick grimes : @notacleangirl, @v3lv3tf0x, @lemoanaid, @starpix

taglist form linked in pinned post :3

#jay writes!#rick grimes🎀#rick grimes #rick grimes x reader #rick grimes smut #rick grimes fic #rick grimes fluff #rick grimes fanfiction #judith grimes #twd #the walking dead #andrew lincoln smut #andrew lincoln x reader #rick grimes x you #rick grimes imagine #michonne #andrew lincoln

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happy74827 · 1 year ago

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The Lesson of Reality

[Rick Grimes and Child!Reader]

Synopsis: You accidentally get a lot more “experience” than what Rick had planned.

WC: 3080

Category: Slight Angst, S6!Rick (no TOWL spoilers) {TW — Gore, Violence, Walkers, Blood, Death}

There’s so many fics about Daryl being a father figure that it’s about time that Rick had his Joel Miller moment (especially now that all the episodes of The Ones Who Live have aired). So have fun with this cute Protective!Rick moment.

『••✎••』

They say when times are tough, people can rise to the occasion and show their true colors. For some, it's an opportunity to prove they can survive the hardships and come out the other side stronger, wiser, and more experienced. Then there is the scum of the earth. They will take any opportunity to steal, kill, and hurt others while they try and make it out unscathed.

For Rick, he wanted you to be part of the former. He always saw your potential to become a fighter—a survivor. Hell, you made it this long by yourself, after all. You had to learn and adapt to the world.

And given your age, it was a hard thing to accomplish.

Your innocence didn't help, either. On one hand, he wanted to keep you as innocent and childlike as possible for as long as he could. The world was already a shit-show. The least you could do was still have the mentality of the child you were supposed to be. Being only ten years old, it was the right thing to do.

But then he remembers what the world was like now. If he let you live with that naivety, it'd get you killed. And it didn’t matter how intelligent you were because even if it saved your ass a few times, it won’t forever.

The fact of the matter is you were going to be hurt no matter what. And you had to be prepared for it.

He had already shown his own son, Carl, the harshness of the new world. He didn't want to do it, but the world left him no choice. And he couldn't deny the boy the means to defend himself and his family.

And even if you weren’t his kid, that didn’t mean he wouldn’t do the same for you.

He just needed the right time to teach you… to remind you that Alexandria isn’t the safest place on the planet.

The perfect time came when the Wolves attacked the group, and the gates were broken down.

After all the tragedy and loss, and Alexandria started to rebuild and strengthen their walls once again, Rick decided then was the time to toughen you up.

And thus, there you were, sitting on a tree stump as Rick stood in front of you, knife in hand, and Daryl beside him.

Eugene was also there, but he was standing to the side, watching with mild curiosity.

“You sure ‘bout this?” Daryl asked, looking from you to Rick, brows furrowed in concern. “It’s good takin' 'em outside the walls, but now? After everything that just happened, I mean? The people need yah right now, man. And the last thing we need is for the lil' squirt here to get hurt, too. Yer already lookin' rough as it is."

"I'll be fine, Daryl," Rick replied, his eyes not leaving yours. “Besides, I won’t be gone long. It’s just a quick look around. In and out, and then I'll be back. Two days, tops.”

Everyone around you seemed to be on edge, with the attack on the walls still fresh in their minds. But you?

Well, you were too busy staring at the shiny, shiny knife. Excitement shone in your eyes as your fingers twitched.

Truth be told, ever since Daryl and Aaron found you alone, wandering the woods and eating raw squirrel, and brought you to Alexandria, you felt as if something was missing.

You had never been the most social kid. You had the bare minimum amount of friends at school. None of them stuck around after you were pulled out of school. You had no close relatives that wanted you around. No father figure and the only motherly presence in your life was gone before you understood the new reality.

And while there were other kids in Alexandria, the older ones were already too busy trying to act like adults, and the younger ones were too immature. Sam, the kid that had once been closest to your age, was just a crybaby who didn’t know any better. He was scared of the dark and the idea of a walker. He never went outside the walls, so it was no wonder.

It was like living in a house full of strangers. They were all kind to you, but there was something missing.

But the Grimes family? Well, you couldn't help but feel more comfortable around them. Carl didn’t seem to like you, at least not at first, but ever since the “Wolves” attack and sudden loss of his eye, he was becoming nicer.

And then there was Rick. He was always kind, but after the incident, he became even kinder. More attentive and caring. Always checking on you, making sure you were safe and comfortable. Something about that night must've really changed him because he's been different since then.

And you liked it. You felt more comfortable around him. You didn’t know what it was. Maybe it was because he had saved you from a walker, or perhaps it was the way he talked to you, but you enjoyed his company.

You also loved destroying him in Gin Rummy. With the mix of his shocked expression and Michonne’s laughter, it was priceless.

Rick looked back at Daryl, who was still giving him a doubtful expression. But it wasn’t a no. So, Rick took it as a sign of agreement.

Daryl huffed and put a hand on his hip, shifting his weight to his right side. "Alright, alright. But if somethin' goes wrong, I won’t hesitate to tell ya I told ya so, yah hear me?”

Rick snorted. "Wouldn’t expect any less from you."

Daryl rolled his eyes and shook his head, a smirk on his lips. He gave you one more glance, and then he turned and left.

With that out of the way, Rick focused on the task at hand. That’s when Eugene made his presence known. He was the man with the map, so to speak.

He came over and laid the map of the area on the ground in front of you.

"I've marked the areas of the woods I believe would be best suited for your scavenging mission. However, should your route take a turn, there are several alternate routes to get back. There are also a few marked areas with potential food sources, water, and the possibility of tools or other survival necessities.

"Thank you, Eugene. I appreciate this," Rick said, putting a hand on the man's shoulder. Eugene smiled and nodded.

"You're welcome, sir. Now, if you'll excuse me, Rosita and I have an appointment at the gate to inspect and repair the damaged panels.” Eugene stood up and straightened his clothes, and then he was gone, heading back to the gate.

"Ready?" Rick asked. You looked up at him, smiling, and gave a nod. Soon, you were off into the rusty car that Daryl had brought from outside the walls.

You sat in the back seat, along with the bags semi-full of supplies and some extra weapons. Most of them belonged to Rick, however, so all you had was your old baseball cap.

And, of course, the old switchblade that Daryl gave you a while back.

For most of the scavenge trip, it was peaceful. The occasional walker showed up here and there, but for the most part, they were few and far between.

You found a lot of supplies. Food, medicine, clothes, and anything else you could think of. Rick also made sure to teach you how to pick locks, avoid traps, and a bunch of other skills.

But, of course, as things go, something has to go wrong.

A group of walkers, about twenty or so, showed up. It was no big deal. It was a lot, but nothing you couldn't handle.

You and Rick quickly got to work, taking them out one by one. You had gotten good with your knife, and with some pointers from Rick, you were practically a pro.

And then there was Rick, swinging his machete, stabbing and slashing his way through the herd. His face was a mix of focus and calm. It was impressive.

But the problem wasn’t the walkers. You were both doing fine. The problem was the aftermath. When the last walker fell to your feet, a gun rose and pointed at Rick's head.

And the guy holding the gun? Well, he looked like a psychopath. He had a smile that sent shivers down your spine, and it didn't help that the sun was starting to set.

"Hey there. Nice work taking out those rotters. But I'm going to have to ask you to hand over the bags and all the weapons you have. Oh, and I love that baseball cap. That'll be mine, too."

Well, Rick wanted you to toughen up. It seemed the universe had the same idea.

Somehow, you ended up behind Rick, shielded from the man and his gun. Your heart was pounding in your ears as the adrenaline kicked in. You didn't know what to do.

Rick didn't, either. Not when a group of armed men stepped out of the trees and aimed their guns at him. He didn't even have the time to reach for his machete.

Rick raised his hands, but his body was tense.

"Don't," was the only thing he said. His voice was stern, a growl hidden underneath. The man grinned and laughed.

"Oh, I'm gonna have fun with you," the man sneered.

Suddenly, all of them charged forward, grabbing the two of you. Your cap was taken, and Rick's machete was tossed away.

Despite the stronghold, Rick was able to kick and punch his way through his attackers. Even with the gun being pointed at him and the man pulling the trigger, he still managed to dodge the bullet and throw a few more punches.

The man growled, but the smile didn't leave his face.

"Feisty, aren't you? I love a challenge."

With a flick of his wrist, he knocked the butt of the gun against Rick's temple, sending him to the ground.

"Rick!" You yelled but were cut off when someone grabbed you by the hair and pulled, eliciting a scream from you.

"What a cutie," the man purred, grabbing you by the chin. You tried to pull away, but he held tight.

"How old are you, huh? Six? Seven? Eh, it doesn't matter. All kids are the same. Little shits who don't know their place."

You took that as a sign. You spat in his face. He didn't even flinch. In fact, the smile only widened. It pissed you off so much that you did the one thing that would definitely take a smile off his face.

You saw it done once, with a foot. A woman back in Alexandria seemed upset with a man, and she took her boot and kicked him right where you aimed your switchblade.

You weren't sure if it was a good idea, but it was the only thing you could think of.

So you did. And let me tell you, that was one of the few times you had ever heard someone scream so loud. He dropped you in an instant, unfortunately taking the knife with him.

“Son of a-!! You little-!!” Pain and anger laced the man's words as he clutched himself. You scrambled back, watching with wide eyes as he slowly recovered.

He didn’t dare try to crawl over to you, though. He didn’t trust his body to move.

Instead, he turned his attention to his side, where his small pistol had been tossed. He reached over and picked it up, pointing the barrel in your direction.

“I was gonna be nice… maybe have a little fun, but now?” He let out a painful chuckle. The smile was still there, but it was laced with anger. He groaned in pain, and his body shook.

Still, his hands remained steady.

"You little shit. I outta blow your head off. Let the rotters tear you apart, limb from limb. Would serve you right.”

Rick's heart stopped at that. The gun was aimed at you, and he was too far away. Even if he charged, he wouldn't make it in time.

There was no other option.

Just as the man squinted his eyes, about to pull the trigger, the sound of a gunshot rang through the air. It made the man jump and look around, right in time to see one of his men fall to the ground.

"What the-?"

You turned and saw Rick tussling with another man, the one holding a gun, who was fighting for control.

The man who had his gun pointed at you took the opportunity to shoot it again, but you were prepared enough to duck out of the way.

The bullet went into a tree, and by the time the next one fired, he was the last one standing.

And boy, was he pissed. The bullet once again missed his target, but only barely.

That was enough, though. Just enough to get Rick to kick the gun out of his hands before pressing his boot right where your pocket knife was still sticking out.

Rick had the advantage, and it was obvious, with the screams of agony coming from the man. He was on his knees, clutching his crotch, and Rick had a firm hand on the back of his head, ready to bash his skull into the ground if need be.

But he didn't. He had other plans.

He pulled out your knife, only to stick it right back into place and then some.

"Ah! You crazy bas-!! Fuck!!"

"You’re going to listen to me. Real good, you’ hear?” Rick’s voice was dark, and the man nodded frantically.

"Grab his gun and come over here."

You did as you were told, picking up the pistol and slowly walking over. The man whimpered, tears staining his cheeks as blood seeped through his pants.

"You're gonna stand there and keep your gun pointed at his head while I tie his hands together. If he even twitches, shoot him."

You gulped but nodded. You kept your arms out, hands as steady as you could make them.

“You sick, twisted, fuckin' asshole. I'll fucking kill you!" The man snarled, his teeth gritting and his face contorted in pain.

"That's cute," Rick said. He was quick to tie the man's wrists together. Rick was just as quick to grab him and force him on his feet before kicking the back of his knees and sending him sprawling on the ground.

"Stay," Rick commanded him like a dog, and you couldn't help but smile a little at the man's pained, angry expression.

Rick quickly gathered the supplies and the bag, and then he was over to you, giving you a once-over.

"You hurt? Bleeding? Anything broken?"

"N-No, I'm okay," you replied, voice wavering a bit.

"Good," he breathed out, and you noticed he was shaking a bit, too. Not enough to notice at first glance, but enough to know that he was trying his hardest not to.

He took the gun from your hands gingerly, and then he was kneeling before the man.

"Who are you?"

The man was silent. Rick didn't wait long before aiming the gun at the man's right thigh.

"Let me rephrase that. Who are you? What's your name?"

"Fuck y—”

Rick shot the man in the thigh without any hesitation. The scream of pain made you jump.

"Try again. Who are you?"

"Aah!! Fuck!! I-I'm Dave, okay? My name's Dave!"

"Okay, Dave. Good. Now, why did you attack us? And don't think I'm above shooting you again, or worse, so be honest. I can tell when someone's lying to me."

"We were just passing through! Saw you and thought, 'Hey, easy pickings!' Didn't expect you to be the goddamn terminator!"

"Passing through to where?"

Silence. Rick sighed and shook his head, but before he could fire another shot, Dave finally caved.

"Back to c-camp. Please, we have family. Wives, children… We meant nothin' by it! We swear! We just-! We were hungry. We were starving! Please, have mercy!"

"Children? Like the one you just threatened to shoot in the head?" Rick growled. Dave flinched.

"N-no, I-"

“Where are they? Down that stream? I saw your tracks earlier. That was you, wasn’t it?"

Dave's silence spoke volumes. Rick looked back at you, and you were staring at the man, wide-eyed and fearful, not of him specifically, but of what Rick could do to him.

Rick took a deep breath and then turned back to Dave.

"How many are there?"

"T-Ten. Maybe eleven."

"Are they armed?"

"J-Just with knives and stuff."

"You got anything else? Any other guns or ammo?"

"N-No. Please, just let us go! We won't bother you again! Just don't hurt me."

Rick looked back at you again. Your eyes were still locked on the man, but you could feel his gaze. You looked up at him.

"With that stunt, you just pulled,” Rick stood up, his eyes still aligned with yours, but he wasn’t speaking to you. He was addressing Dave.

"I can’t take that chance.”

Then the bullet fired, and soon it was just you and Rick with a bunch of corpses.

He quickly holstered the gun and rushed to bags left on the ground.

"What about his family?” Your voice was shaken. You had never seen someone shot like that, point blank.

Rick sighed, pausing in his movements.

"They don’t exist.” Rick stood and turned, looking you in the eye. “I know people like him. If he had a family, they're already dead, or he killed them himself.”

You didn’t break eye contact, “and if you’re wrong? What then?"

Rick didn’t even blink. "Then I saved them a lot of suffering."

Rick didn't like doing this, killing people, taking life. He hated it, really.

But he would be damned if anyone ever laid a hand on his family or his people. Even if it meant getting a little bloody.

You had to turn away from him, from the intensity of his stare.

Rick sighed and walked over to you, placing a hand on your shoulder.

"You did good back there. Really good. The world it’s… It ain't kind to people. And even though I hope it never happens, you have to be prepared for anything. For anyone."

Rick squeezed your shoulder, and his voice was gentle.

"And, for what it's worth, I'm proud of you."

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pleasuresofsohodolls · 1 month ago

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⋆.ೃ - Greene!Reader

Greene!Reader who was practically Carl's guardian angel when his group first arrived at the farm - never leaving his room because he was the first person her age she had seen in months since the beginning of the apocalypse and she would've cursed the Lord above if he didn't live. Carl genuinely thought he was in heaven and she was an angel when he woke up.

Greene!Reader who is a complete mix of Beth and Maggie, given that they were the only examples of teenagers when she was younger was a rebellious brunette and a compliant blonde.

Greene!Reader who was jealous of Carl's 'crush' on Beth at the prison and would ignore him just to piss him off - even going so far as to put eggs in his cowboy hat, two things she learnt from Maggie.

Greene!Reader who is attached to the hip with Carl, wherever he is she is, and when they got to Alexandria and they had to spend time apart for more than five seconds she'd get all moody.

Greene!Reader who has Carl wrapped around her finger. She says she misses something? He is finding it. She's hungry? He's giving her half of his plate - even if she. argues. Michonne is endlessly teasing him about it but he can't find it in himself to care because he just loves her so much, she's always been there for him.

Greene!Reader who loves Glenn (in my heart he lives) and he's literally just the brother Shawn never was to her, given thirteen year age gap and all. Even though Glenn was ten years older, they liked all the same things. Video Games, Movies, he got her into skateboarding at the prison after he found one on a run, they're both equally as sarcastic as the other, and the most notable shared interest : Maggie. Although they both love her in different ways, she's their favourite person.

Greene!Reader who absolutely adores Judith. Whenever she can she's babysitting her, playing with her, holding her, anything involving Judith she is usually there. And this only makes Carl more obsessed with her, because she's so loving. She loves everything and anything cute and he feels the same way, except she's the everything and anything cute.

Greene!Reader who is obsessed with animals. When Carl told her he used to have a hamster she almost screamed, she was never allowed tiny pets like that due to living on such a large plot of land. She was always reading books with the horses back at the farm, randomly talking to foxes she finds in the woods, she's practically the apocalypse Snow White.

Greene!Reader who is always stealing Carl's clothes in the winter or to sleep in. It just brings her so much comfort to be able to smell Carl wherever she goes. Her attachment issues would probably get her into therapy in the old world.

Greene!Reader who despite being cautious and scared of every sound, loves sneaking out of Alexandria with Carl. She loves how freeing it is not being constantly watched by Maggie or Daryl. And she especially loves the amount of alone time it gives her with Carl, their first kiss was underneath their tree.

˖ ݁𖥔 ݁˖ 𐙚 ˖ ݁𖥔 ݁˖

Someone take the screen away from me I can't stop writing these 😭 I have so many different reader types for Carl in my head it's actually crazy I love this man so much 💔

#greene!reader #greene!reader x carl grimes #carl grimes #maggie greene #maggie rhee #glenn rhee #beth greene #michonne grimes #twd #the walking dead #carl grimes x reader #carl grimes x you #carl grimes x female!reader #twd x reader #twd x you #the walking dead x reader #the walking dead x you

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darylslittlebitch · 25 days ago

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meeting twd characters for the first time (x fem!reader)

characters: daryl, rick, negan, glenn, carl, maggie and michonne.

writer's note: twd fandom just doesn’t age, man. no matter how many years pass, it still hits different every damn time. a few days ago, i started rewatching the series for the eleventh time (yeah, i’ve got issues, i know), and i was craving some good imagines… but guess what? i found nothing with all my faves together. so, you know what? i took matters into my own hands. if no one’s gonna feed me, i’ll fill tumblr myself with imagines of the walking dead. consider this my way of keeping the hype alive. now, go survive the apocalypse, you filthy survivors. request are open! ;)

daryl

The forest seemed to close in around you. You ran aimlessly, your lungs burning and your legs trembling, but you couldn't stop. The guttural sounds of the walkers dragged behind you, each growl getting closer, each dry footstep on the leaves proving there was no escape.

"I can't… I can't…" you thought, feeling your strength abandon you.

Your chest rose and fell frantically, and the branches scratched your skin. Warm blood dripped from a cut on your arm, but you had no time to worry about it. You were alone, defenseless, and had no idea what to do. You had always depended on others—your father, your brother, anyone willing to protect you. But now… now there was no one.

A louder growl, way too close, made you stumble and fall to your knees. The impact shook your entire body, pain shooting through every exhausted muscle.

"No…" you sobbed, feeling tears spill over. "Please, no…"

When you lifted your gaze, you saw it. The nearest walker, just a few feet away, its jaw hanging loose, rotten flesh peeling off in chunks. Its empty eyes stared straight at you, hungry, and its bony fingers reached forward.

"I'm going to die here…"

You curled into yourself, squeezing your eyes shut. There was nothing left to do.

Then, you heard a sharp whistle. Something pierced through the walker's skull, dropping it instantly like a sack of putrid meat.

You opened your eyes just in time to see someone emerging from the trees—a lean man, long unkempt hair, a crossbow still raised, and a serious expression on his face.

"You alright?" he asked, his voice rough and firm.

You blinked, trying to process what had just happened. "W-what?"

"Don't just sit there," he grunted, quickly approaching and grabbing your arm to pull you up. His grip was firm but not harsh. "More of those sons of bitches are around."

You tried to walk, but your legs wouldn’t cooperate. "I can't…" you murmured, panic tightening around your chest.

"Yeah, you can," he insisted, practically dragging you along. "I ain't carrying you."

You barely managed to move, but he never let go. He guided you through the trees with quick, sure steps, like he knew every inch of the forest. You could hear the growls fading behind you little by little until, finally, silence settled.

"It’s over," he muttered, finally letting go. You collapsed to the ground, your heart pounding violently in your chest.

"W-what was that?" you stammered, struggling to catch your breath.

"The end of the world," he answered bluntly, shrugging.

"Thank you…" you whispered.

He nodded, as if there was no need to say anything else. Then, after a long silence, he added, "You got somewhere to stay?"

You shook your head, feeling a sharp sting of shame.

The man let out a heavy sigh, running a hand down his face, as if deciding whether you were worth the trouble.

"Alright," he finally said. "I can take you to my people… if you promise not to screw it up."

It didn’t sound like the kindest offer, but it was the best thing you’d heard in days.

"I promise," you said quickly.

He looked you up and down, as if trying to figure out just how useless you might be. But instead of saying anything, he simply extended his hand.

"I'm Daryl."

You took his hand, still shaking. It was rough, covered in scars, with the firmness of someone who had spent his life surviving.

"Thank you, Daryl…"

He nodded again and, before turning to lead you through the woods once more, he murmured:

"Don’t wander off again."

rick

The sun was beginning to set when you saw him for the first time.

A man, looking exhausted but alert, was walking down the road with a backpack on his shoulders and a revolver ready to fire. He moved with the confidence of someone who knew what he was doing, attentive to every shadow and every sound. You followed him from a distance, crouching among the bushes lining the road. You didn’t know who he was, but something about him told you he carried valuable things.

For the past few weeks, you had eaten only the scraps you found lying around, and you couldn’t keep going like this. Desperation had pushed you to do things you never thought you’d do… and this was one of them.

When the man stopped in front of an abandoned car, he pulled out a small bag of canned food and stuffed it into his backpack. He couldn’t have much more, but it would be enough to keep you alive for a few days.

You waited until he stepped away from the car and then slipped silently behind him.

“Drop the backpack,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady.

The man turned slowly, raising his hands just a few inches. His blue eyes, cold as steel, locked onto yours.

“Don’t do this,” he warned calmly.

“I said drop the backpack.” You kept the knife steady, though your hand was sweating.

“You don’t want this,” he insisted. “You don’t look like a killer.”

His words made you grip the knife’s handle tighter. What does this guy know about me?

“Drop it,” you demanded, firmer this time.

With an expression of pure resignation, he let the backpack fall to the ground.

“The gun too,” you added.

His jaw tensed, but he obeyed, placing his revolver on the ground with a soft clank.

You quickly crouched to grab both things, never taking your eyes off him. You were just starting to rise when you heard it—

Gunshots.

First one. Then several, getting closer and closer. You froze, staring at the horizon.

A car was speeding toward you, weaving between the remains of abandoned vehicles. You saw at least three silhouettes inside, one of them leaning out the window with a rifle in hand.

“Shit!”

The shot passed so close you could feel the wind whistling past your ear. Fear paralyzed you—you didn’t know whether to run or drop to the ground. But before you could do anything, you felt a brutal impact on the back of your knee.

You screamed and collapsed to the ground.

“What the hell—?!”

Then you understood: Rick had knocked you down just in time to keep the bullet from hitting you.

He was already on the ground and without thinking, you reached into your jacket, pulled out the gun you had stolen from him just seconds ago, and tossed it back to him.

Rick caught it mid-air, turned in an instant, and fired twice at the car. The driver lost control, and the vehicle crashed into one of the abandoned cars on the road.

“Move!” Rick growled, grabbing your arm and dragging you with him.

You both approached the crashed car with weapons ready. One of the guys inside tried to stumble out, but Rick didn’t hesitate—he shot him in the head without a second thought.

Another man, bulkier, reached for a pistol that had fallen to the ground, but you saw him first. Without thinking, you fired. The bullet hit him in the shoulder, and he dropped to his knees.

Rick finished him off without a second glance.

The silence that followed was overwhelming.

You breathed heavily, your chest rising and falling frantically. Everything had happened too fast, and adrenaline still burned through your veins.

Rick, wasting no time, climbed into the crashed car. The door creaked as he opened it, quickly scanning the interior.

“The keys are still in it,” he murmured. Then he turned to you. “Get in.”

“I can’t go with you,” you said, trying to sound firm.

Rick got out of the car, walked over to you, and looked you straight in the eyes.

“Do you know what would’ve happened if you hadn’t given me my gun back?” he asked quietly. “You’d be dead.”

You couldn’t answer. You knew he was right.

“Get in the car,” he ordered, this time more serious. “I’m not in the mood to argue.”

You were surprised at how quickly your legs moved to obey.

You both got in, and the engine roared to life. As the car moved forward, you felt Rick’s gaze on you.

“Why did you give me my gun back?” he finally asked.

You shrugged, unsure how to explain it. “I guess… I trusted you.”

Rick scoffed, as if that was the most absurd thing he’d ever heard.

“Don’t make that mistake again,” he warned. But despite the harshness of his words, there was something in his eyes… something that made you feel like you wouldn’t regret trusting him.

negan

Night had fallen hours ago, but you kept moving through the shadows, your heart pounding against your chest like a frantic drum.

You had been running since you escaped the small group of scavengers who had tried to trap you on the road. Three men—filthy, armed, and too confident that you wouldn’t get away. But they hadn’t counted on you being fast… though now, they were hunting you like an animal.

“I can’t keep this up…” you thought, gasping for air as your legs threatened to give out. But giving up was not an option.

You hid behind an overturned bus, pressing a hand against your chest in a desperate attempt to calm your breathing. That’s when you saw it: a small camp, lit by torches. Armed men stood at the entrance, chatting with an air of confidence that was almost insulting.

“They don’t exactly look friendly…” you thought, but what other choice did you have?

You stumbled out of your hiding spot, your steps unsteady on the gravel.

“Stop right there!” one of the guards shouted, immediately raising his weapon.

“Please!” You lifted both hands, trying not to seem like a threat. “I just… need help.”

The man hesitated for a second, but just as he seemed about to say something, a voice rose from inside the camp:

“What the hell is going on here?”

The voice was deep, rough, carrying a casual indifference that didn’t match the tension in the air.

The man who stepped out of the camp looked like he belonged to another world. Tall, broad-shouldered, wearing a leather jacket that gleamed under the firelight. His beard was perfectly trimmed, and his smile… that lopsided, cocky, arrogant smile froze you in place.

“And what are you?” he asked, stopping in front of you with his hands on his hips. “A gift? Or a goddamn spy?”

“I’m neither,” you answered, your voice still unsteady. “I’m just… running away.”

Negan let out a low, genuine but mocking laugh.

“Running away?” he repeated, tilting his head. “Well, sweetheart, you came to the right place… because no one messes with me or mine.”

“Please,” you insisted. “I just… need a place to stay for the night.”

Negan stepped closer, invading your personal space as if it were the most natural thing in the world. He smelled of leather, gunpowder, and something else… something thick, masculine, that made you swallow hard.

“And what do I get out of letting you in?” he asked, his voice low and dangerous. “Because in this world, princess, nothing is free.”

“I…” You hesitated, realizing you were stepping into a game he controlled completely. “I can work. I can… clean, cook, whatever you need.”

Negan let out another chuckle, softer this time.

“You think I need a cook?” His smirk widened as his eyes roamed over you, evaluating you like a puzzle he was trying to solve.

“How about…” he leaned in even closer, his face dangerously near yours, “you give me my gun?”

You frowned, confused.

“Your what…?”

But before you could react, his hand slid to your side, yanking away the pistol you had stolen from the scavengers.

“This one?” he murmured, lifting it in front of your eyes.

You froze.

“You know,” he said, spinning the gun skillfully between his fingers, “I like people with guts… but I also like them to know their damn place.”

He took a step back, still smirking.

“Tell me, princess…” he pointed the gun at you, though now it belonged to him again. “Are your little friends still on your tail?”

The sound of footsteps and voices in the distance answered for you.

Negan clicked his tongue in fake disappointment.

“What a mess…” he muttered, and then, in a swift move, grabbed your arm.

“What the hell are you doing?!” you exclaimed, trying to break free.

“I’m saving your ass,” he replied as if it were obvious. “Now stay behind me… and if you move without me telling you to, sweetheart, I swear I’ll tie you to a goddamn chair.”

You followed him, unable to process how quickly things had turned.

By the time the men chasing you arrived, Negan was already waiting for them.

“Well, well…” he drawled, casually resting the pistol on his shoulder. “Looking for someone? Because if so, I’m afraid this little lady already belongs to me.”

“Give us what she stole,” one of the men growled, aiming a shotgun.

Negan chuckled softly.

“Really? You’re pointing that thing at me?” Negan tilted his head, his smirk turning even more dangerous. “Look, buddy… if you’re gonna have the balls to threaten me, you’d better know how to shoot.”

And before the guy could react, Negan raised his gun and shot him in the leg.

“Shit!” the man yelled, collapsing to his knees.

The other two didn’t wait to fire, but Negan’s men were already prepared. Everything happened so fast that you barely had time to react before the camp fell silent again.

Negan turned back to you, that satisfied smirk still on his face.

“Guess you owe me one,” he said, tucking his pistol back into his belt.

“Guess I do…” you admitted, still breathless.

“Well, princess…” He stepped closer again, this time leaning in until his warm breath brushed your face. “I hope you’re good at cleaning up blood… because you just got yourself a job.”

And with that cocky, lethal smile, you knew you had just gotten involved with someone who could either save you… or destroy you.

glenn

The gun’s barrel pressed heavily against your temple, your finger trembling on the trigger.

There was no reason to keep going. You had run, fought, screamed until your voice was gone. But the world had already taken everything from you. Your family, your friends, the promises of a future that would never come. All that was left was you—a ghost clinging to a thread of existence that had long stopped mattering.

The wind blew gently through the trees, stirring the dead leaves around you. You were alone. Or so you thought.

"Hey!"

The voice made your shoulders tense. Your eyes lifted, and there he was, standing a few meters away. A young man, his face filled with concern, his lips slightly parted as if he were trying to decide what to say. His hands were raised in a gesture of peace.

"Wait. Don’t do it."

You blinked, surprised. You hadn’t expected anyone to appear—especially not someone who seemed… genuinely worried.

"Go away." Your voice was rough, broken.

He shook his head, taking a cautious step toward you.

"I can’t do that."

You gritted your teeth, your knuckles white as you held the gun.

"Why do you care?"

The man exhaled slowly, as if choosing his words carefully.

"I don’t know you. I don’t know what you’ve been through. But I know what it’s like to feel alone. I know what it’s like to think there are no more options." His dark eyes held a burning intensity. "And I also know that even when it seems like there’s nothing beyond this moment, there’s always something. Something worth staying for."

Your throat tightened.

"My family is dead," you whispered. "I watched them die. I couldn’t save them. I can’t save myself."

Glenn swallowed hard. He looked nervous, but he didn’t look away.

"I lost my family too." His voice dropped, raw and honest. "Not in the same way, but… they’re gone. And every day, I wonder if it would make a difference if I disappeared too."

Your breath shook.

"And?"

"And… I found out that it does. That even when you think no one cares, someone does. That even when you feel like you can’t go on, there’s something—someone—who needs you to stay."

The metal against your skin felt heavier.

Glenn took another step forward.

"Don’t let this world decide for you," he said softly but firmly. "Don’t let it win."

Your hand trembled, the gun lowering just slightly.

"I… I don’t know how to keep going."

Glenn nodded slowly.

"Then let me help you."

And with infinite patience, he extended his hand to you.

For a moment, you hesitated. But then the tears came—hot and heavy—and you let go of the gun. Glenn took it carefully, as if it were something fragile.

And then you collapsed.

You couldn’t remember the last time someone had held you like this—with strong, warm arms, with a presence that didn’t demand anything in return. Glenn didn’t say anything as you sobbed against his chest, as your fingers clung desperately to his shirt. He just held you, letting you release all the pain you had carried for so long.

After a while, when your breathing steadied, Glenn whispered:

"Come on. There’s a safe place. I won’t promise it’s perfect, but… you’ll be with people who’ll help you keep going."

You didn’t know what the future held. But in that moment, as Glenn offered you his support without expecting anything in return, you felt that maybe—just maybe—you could learn to live again.

carl

The cold seeped into your bones, even through your tattered jacket. The night air was thick, heavy, as if every breeze carried the stench of death. You didn’t know how many walkers had been following you, but you could hear them. Their guttural growls and dragging footsteps kept you on edge.

You had to leave your backpack behind when you realized they were catching up. Now, all you had left was the knife you gripped with trembling fingers.

“Please…” you whispered to yourself, not even sure what you were asking for. Maybe for someone to find you. Maybe for all of this to just be a bad dream.

And then you saw him.

A few meters ahead, a figure moved swiftly between the trees. You weren’t sure whether to feel relieved or even more afraid. Dangerous people were everywhere in this world… but if you had any chance of getting out alive, you had to take the risk.

“Hey!” you called out softly, afraid of both the walkers and the possibility that this person might decide to kill you instead of help you.

The boy turned, already pulling out a gun and aiming it at you. He froze for a second, evaluating you.

He wore an eyepatch over his right eye and a sheriff’s hat that was too big for him, but what stood out the most was the firmness in his expression. His clear eyes studied you with a mix of distrust and determination.

“Are you alone?” he asked.

“Yes,” you said without thinking, too desperate to lie.

The growls grew louder. The boy glanced at the path you had come from and frowned.

“Come with me,” he said suddenly, turning without waiting for an answer.

“W-what?”

“I said come on!” he insisted, and this time, you didn’t hesitate.

You ran together through the forest, jumping over roots and dodging branches as the walkers' shadows moved between the trees.

You reached an abandoned cabin. Carl—because that’s what he had introduced himself as in the midst of the chaos—gestured for you to crouch behind an overturned table.

“Stay here,” he whispered.

“What are you going to do?” you asked, panic gripping your throat.

Carl pulled a knife from his belt and drove it into the palm of his hand without even flinching.

“What the hell…?”

“Shut up,” he interrupted, rubbing the fresh blood against the doorframe. “They follow the scent… I’ll lead them away.”

Before you could respond, Carl slipped out through the back of the cabin. His silhouette disappeared into the trees, leaving you alone in the darkness.

The growls got closer.

You could see them through the window—at least five walkers stumbling toward the front door. You didn’t breathe, didn’t move, didn’t even dare to blink.

But the blood Carl had left behind did its job. One by one, the walkers passed by, following the trail he had created.

When the last one disappeared, your body suddenly felt twice as heavy.

Carl returned minutes later, his shirt soaked in blood—mostly not his own—and his breathing ragged.

“You okay?” he asked.

“Am I okay?” you let out a disbelieving laugh. “You just cut your hand open!”

Carl glanced at his palm indifferently. “It was nothing.”

“Nothing?” You moved closer to examine the wound, taking his hand before he could resist. “God… this looks awful.”

“It’s just a cut,” he insisted, though his fingers remained still in yours.

“No, it’s reckless,” you scolded him gently, tearing a piece of fabric from your frayed sleeve and wrapping it around his palm.

He stayed silent as you worked. When you finished tying the bandage, you looked up and realized he was staring at you.

“You didn’t have to do that,” you murmured. “You could have… you could have died.”

“I wasn’t going to let them get you,” he replied as if it were obvious.

“Why?” you asked without thinking.

Carl swallowed hard and shrugged. “I guess… because I don’t want good people to die.”

The silence that followed was awkward… but not in a bad way. It was as if both of you were suddenly too aware of each other, of the fact that, for the first time in a long time, someone had done something selfless for the other.

“Thank you,” you whispered.

Carl lowered his gaze, but you saw the faintest smile under the brim of his hat.

“You’re welcome.”

maggie

The abandoned church stands before you, its structure worn down by time and neglect. The wooden doors creak as you push them open, releasing the scent of dust and dampness. There are no pews left standing, only rubble and fragments of broken stained glass that catch the fading sunlight in muted flashes of color.

You walk toward the altar, where the lifeless bodies you had been forced to kill now lay motionless. Walkers. Or what once had been people. You kneel before them, letting the weight of reality settle onto your shoulders.

Closing your eyes, you clasp your hands together.

"Lord, receive these souls with mercy. Though the world turned them into shadows of what they once were, I know that, at some point, they were sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, friends. Forgive them, if there was ever anything to forgive. Take them home."

The silence is heavy but not uncomfortable. You know you are not alone.

"If you want me to pray for you too, you can come closer. I know you've been there this whole time."

You hear a quiet sigh before footsteps echo against the stone floor. You open your eyes and turn your head. A woman approaches cautiously, her rifle secured in her hand. Her expression is serious, but there’s something in her gaze that betrays her curiosity.

"How did you know?" she asks.

You smile calmly.

"You don’t need to see someone to know when they carry a burden in their soul."

She stops a few meters away, her eyes fixed on the lifeless bodies with a deep frown.

"Why do you pray for them?" she finally asks. "They’re not worth it anymore."

You look at the corpses with the same serenity you’ve had from the start.

"Because they were once people," you reply. "Don’t you think they still deserve that much?"

She watches you with a mix of disbelief and confusion.

"It’s hard to think that way after everything they’ve done to us. After everything they’ve done to my people."

You nod slowly.

"I understand. But I can’t forget that before they became monsters, they were just like you and me. How do we know if one of them wasn’t a good person? Maybe a husband, a mother, someone who fought until the very end… And one day, the world betrayed them."

She crosses her arms, thoughtful.

"Do you still believe in God?"

You smile.

"It’s the only thing that’s kept me alive."

Her frown deepens slightly.

"I don’t know how you can still believe."

You sigh softly, never losing your composure.

"Because if I stop, then everything is truly lost."

For a moment, the church is silent. You can tell that your words have affected her, even if she doesn’t say it out loud.

"It’s been a long time since I heard someone talk like that," she admits after a while.

You look at her kindly.

"If you’d like, I can pray for you."

She lets out a brief, almost incredulous laugh—but it isn’t mocking.

"Maybe later."

You nod.

And in that moment, you see something change in her eyes. Maybe not faith, but a spark of hope. Small, but real.

michonne

The air smells of fire and blood. The abandoned town around you is a graveyard of ashes and bodies that no longer have names. Walkers roam through the ruins, dragging their feet over the scorched earth. You wander too, but not without direction.

You have a goal.

The weapon in your hand trembles with exhaustion. You can barely hold it. Days have passed without food, without sleep, with no company but the weight of your own thoughts. You don’t know how much longer you can go on.

A sound makes you freeze.

Footsteps.

Not from walkers.

You turn—and see her.

A woman moves with calculated precision, two walkers chained behind her like macabre shadows. Her braided hair falls over her back, and her steady hand grips the hilt of a katana.

You don’t know her, but her presence says everything. She is not someone to take lightly.

Your fingers tighten around your weapon. This isn’t the first time you’ve encountered someone in this dead world, and so far, the odds have never been in your favor.

She stops, measuring your every move with sharp eyes.

"Don't try anything stupid," she says firmly.

You don’t intend to. But you don’t trust her either.

"Who are you?" you ask, keeping your distance.

She doesn’t answer right away. Instead, she tilts her head slightly, evaluating you as if deciding whether or not you’re worth her time.

"Someone who just wants to pass through," she finally replies. "And someone who’s looking at a person about to collapse."

You clench your jaw. You don’t want to admit it, but she’s right.

Michonne watches the tremor in your hand, the way you barely stay on your feet.

"How long has it been since you last ate?" she asks.

You don’t answer. You don’t want her pity.

She sighs, and before you can react, she pulls a small pouch from her belt and tosses it toward you. Instinctively, you catch it. Food. Something dry and simple, but food nonetheless.

You look at her warily.

"Why?"

Michonne crosses her arms.

"Because I don’t want to have to kill you when you pass out and the walkers get to you."

Her brutal honesty catches you off guard. There’s no kindness in her voice, but no cruelty either. Just the truth.

You sigh and lower your weapon slightly.

"And what do you want in return?"

She shrugs.

"Nothing. But if you want to stay alive, you'd better learn how to move in this world."

You have so many questions, you don’t even know where to start.

Michonne turns and begins to walk away. For a moment, you think that’s the end of it.

But then, without looking back, she says:

"If you have nowhere to go, you can come with me."

You hesitate.

You’re still distrustful. But your options are scarce.

And something in her voice, in her presence, tells you this isn’t an offer she makes lightly.

You take a step forward. Then another.

Michonne says nothing else.

But as you start walking by her side, for the first time in a long while, you don’t feel completely alone.

96 notes · View notes

supernatural-bias · 2 years ago

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concidering i already did something for daryl recently—as he was the clear winner—i shall be doing something for negan next! thank you all for voting

my inspiration is fleeting, but i'd like to write something for this universe again! i simply can not decide on who. let me know if you'd like to be tagged in the end result

reblog for a larger sample size <3

21 notes · View notes

b1xi · 7 months ago

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𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙩, 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧

Glenn rhee x reader

Word count:3752

Warninig: fluff, dead, blood

Pt2 , Pt3

You ran as fast as your legs would allow, stumbling up the stairs while trying not to fall. Behind you, the growls and gasps of the creatures—those who were once your neighbors—roared loudly, almost deafeningly. The upper floors offered no solace; the walls were splattered with blood, silent witnesses to a recent massacre. The air was thick, heavy with death and despair, and each step brought you closer to the unknown, to a possible trap or, perhaps, an unlikely salvation.

By the time you reached the fifth floor, the situation had become even more macabre. Two of those monsters, turned into insatiable predators, were devouring the mangled body of someone you had likely known in life. Horror gripped you; a scream formed in your throat, but you stifled it by covering your mouth with a trembling hand. You knew that the slightest noise could condemn you. There was no time for mourning or compassion. There was only one mission: survival.

Desperately, you looked around for an escape. The growls were getting closer. With no other options, you slipped into an apartment with an ajar door. Once inside, you moved cautiously, your hands gripping the small knife you carried, a pitiful defense but at least something to make you feel somewhat protected.

The living room showed no obvious signs of violence, except for some bloodstains that extended into the bathroom. You took a deep breath and headed for the kitchen, your heart pounding in your chest, searching for anything that might be useful. After a few minutes, you had gathered a small stash: cans of food, soda crackers, snacks, and water. It wasn't much, but it could make the difference between life and death. As you rummaged through the drawers for something more useful, a particular sound startled you.

The sharp cry of a baby broke the silence, coming from one of the rooms at the back. You stood still for a moment, trying to convince yourself that you had imagined it, but the crying persisted. You knew ignoring it wasn't an option. With hesitant steps, you moved towards the source of the sound, stopping in front of a door decorated with a small heart-shaped sign bearing the name "Alice." You pushed the door gently, revealing a pink-painted nursery, filled with drawings and toys scattered on the floor.

In the center of the room stood a white crib, and there, wrapped in blankets, a baby cried inconsolably. Her little face was reddened from the effort of crying, seeking attention, company... protection.

"Damn it," you whispered, this time with more resignation than fear. You looked around, hoping that at any moment someone—perhaps the baby's mother—would come running through the door. But no one came. Anxiety gripped your chest. You knew leaving little Alice there was a certain death sentence. The baby's cries already resonated as an open call to the monsters prowling the building.

With no other options, you took the baby in your arms. Her crying was desperate and incessant, and each passing second made you imagine that the things outside were drawing closer, attracted by the noise. As you rocked her gently back and forth, her sobs began to calm. Her tiny hands clung tightly to your shirt, and gradually, the crying turned into soft whimpers until, finally, it ceased. You sighed with relief, but the tension didn't fully dissipate. Every second was crucial.

You left the room with stealthy steps, Alice wrapped in your arms. The silence of the apartment was oppressive, and the feeling of being watched never left you. Keeping your gaze upwards, you walked down the hallway, vainly searching for any sign of life in the other rooms. But there was nothing. The place seemed deserted.

The bathroom, however, caught your attention. The door was locked, but through the gap beneath it, a faint beam of light filtered in. Something or someone was on the other side. You approached cautiously and pressed your ear against the wood, and horror overwhelmed you. A low, menacing growl resonated from inside, followed by a rasping sound: claws scratching the door.

You instinctively recoiled, fear freezing your blood. Whatever was trapped inside was not human. There was no doubt. Those creatures had reached this place, and surely whoever was locked in there would find a way out soon.

You quickly considered your options, aware that you couldn’t stay. The building was no longer safe, and probably neither was the city. Chaos was spreading like an uncontrollable fire. There was no alternative but to flee before nightfall made the streets even more dangerous. The creatures became more active at dusk, and the cover of darkness would only increase their numbers.

With trembling hands, you found a larger bag and filled it with essentials: supplies, some clean clothes, and everything you might need to care for your new companion, Alice. You fashioned an improvised sling and secured her gently against your chest. Her calm breathing contrasted with your own racing heart.

Leaving the building was easier than you had imagined. The creatures were scattered, hunting on other floors or in the streets. Moving with stealth and determination, you made your way to your car, parked not far from the main entrance. With Alice secured to your chest, you quickly got in and started the engine.

Three weeks had passed since you left the city. Those days felt like an endless nightmare. The first two weeks had been particularly exhausting: the roads were blocked with abandoned cars and wandering corpses, and you had no choice but to continue on foot. You walked through forests, taking shortcuts when you could, though it only heightened your paranoia. The constant crunching of leaves under your feet, the distant sounds of the infected, and the ever-present danger of being surprised kept you on high alert.

Dealing with Alice was another challenge. The baby cried incessantly, her relentless hunger forcing you to stop more often than you would have liked. Sometimes, you could only pray to find a safe place to rest. Sleeping was not an easy option; every nighttime noise, every shadow moving in the dark, was a potential threat.

As you pressed on, the physical and mental exhaustion began to take its toll. You wondered how much longer you could keep going. Alice needed more than you could offer alone. However, as if some higher power had heard your silent pleas, things changed the day you encountered the group.

It happened while you were exploring an abandoned house, desperate for food or diapers for Alice. Hunger and exhaustion were becoming unbearable, and each step felt like a burden. Entering a dusty room, the air thick with humidity and mildew, you were struck by the emptiness. The weight of reality hit you hard: there was nothing. You leaned against the wall for a moment, struggling against despair.

That’s when you saw him: a rugged man with a face hardened by life, holding a crossbow with an unsettling firmness. You had no idea how long he had been there, watching you. Instinctively, you stepped back, raising your hands in a gesture of surrender. The cold steel of his gaze pierced through you, and fear took hold. You were cornered, unsure if this encounter would mean the end.

The man did not lower his weapon but took a step closer, studying your every move. “Are you from the city?” he asked in a deep, authoritative voice. His tone made it clear that he was used to taking control of situations. His eyes quickly scanned the space behind you, as if expecting someone else to emerge from behind you. But he saw nothing.

The lump in your throat made it hard to speak, and for a moment, you thought your legs might give way. You could only nod, hoping it would be enough to placate him. The man kept his gaze fixed on you, evaluating, measuring every detail.

“Are you alone, or is there someone else with you?” he asked again, not softening his tone. Before you could answer, a second man appeared in the room. He was younger, with Asian features, and seemed to be with the first, as the latter showed no surprise upon seeing him. The younger man carried another weapon, though his posture

“There’s no one with me,” you managed to say, your voice trembling as you tried to stay calm. But at that moment, you felt Alice shift in the carrier, as if she was about to wake up. The faint movement of the baby immediately caught both men’s attention.

The younger Asian man slowly lowered his weapon, his expression softening as he assessed the situation. There was something in his gaze, perhaps empathy, or maybe just exhaustion. The crossbow man, however, did not immediately change his expression. His eyes dropped to the small bundle against your chest, and for a moment, the tension in the room became unbearable.

“Is that… a baby?” the young man murmured, incredulous. It seemed he hadn’t seen something so small and delicate in a long time.

You nodded once more, unconsciously tightening your hold on Alice, trying to protect her as best as you could. “Yes… it’s just her and me,” you replied with more confidence than you actually felt.

“What’s your name?” asked the young Asian man, his voice softer than the armed man’s.

“My name is Y/N, and she is Alice,” you answered, feeling a slight calm beginning to settle inside you. You gently stroked Alice’s back, trying to keep her calm. Still, you couldn’t ignore the discomfort caused by the young man’s continuous gaze.

“I’m Glenn, and this is Daryl,” Glenn introduced himself, taking a step toward you and extending a friendly hand. Although you appreciated the gesture, you opted to keep your distance, your survival instinct still on high alert. Glenn noticed your hesitation and lowered his hand, not offended but maintaining his friendly tone.

Daryl, however, had not entirely lowered his guard. His crossbow was still ready, though now aimed at the ground. The tension in his jaw and the coldness in his eyes kept you on edge. The air felt dense, heavy, as if something could go wrong at any moment.

Glenn placed a firm but calm hand on Daryl’s shoulder, trying to ease the situation. “Calm down, she’s not a threat. Look at her, she’s alone with a baby. Let her breathe.” His conciliatory tone managed to soften Daryl’s stance a bit.

Daryl exhaled slowly and finally lowered the crossbow completely, though not without issuing one last warning. “Alright. But I recommend you get out of here before nightfall. It’s not safe to be out in the woods at this hour, especially with a child.” His tone made it clear that he was giving advice rather than making a threat.

You nodded quickly, aware that you didn’t have many options left. The sun was beginning to set, and although you had survived until now, you knew you couldn’t keep going alone for much longer. The city had been hell, and now the forest was proving to be just as dangerous.

“Listen, Y/N,” Glenn interrupted, his voice much softer, almost a whisper. “We have a camp not too far from here. It’s not much, but it’s well-protected, and we have supplies.” His eyes, which had been cautious before, now reflected something more. Empathy, perhaps. “You don’t have to keep wandering alone. You could stay with us. Alice would be safer there.”

His words resonated in your mind. The offer seemed too good to be true, but desperation was beginning to take over. You glanced at Alice, feeling her small, warm, and vulnerable body against yours, and realized you could no longer afford to keep testing your luck. The walkers outside would show no mercy, and you knew you’d soon run out of strength.

“I don’t want to cause any trouble,” you said, unsure. Although Glenn’s offer seemed sincere, something inside you still doubted. You had seen the worst of people in recent days, and distrust had become second nature.

“You won’t be a problem,” Glenn replied with a kind smile. “There are more people at the camp, and we’re all in this together. We can’t promise you an easy life, but we can offer you safety and some peace. At least, for a while.”

You looked at Daryl, searching for any sign that the proposal was genuine, but his expression remained impassive, as hard as a rock. However, by not objecting to Glenn’s offer, he seemed to be giving his tacit consent.

Finally, you nodded, letting a little relief seep into your thoughts. “Alright. I’ll go with you.”

After what felt like hours of walking, you finally descended a hill and before you was a scene that, in another time, would have been a mundane sight: an improvised camp with cars and a trailer. However, now, amidst the chaos, it represented a refuge, a possibility of rest, and perhaps, safety.

Glenn turned to you, noticing your exhaustion. “We’re almost there. It’s better than being out there, believe me.” He smiled, a mix of relief and concern in his gaze. Daryl, for his part, kept his distance, still vigilant with his crossbow ready, though he had stopped aiming it directly at you. He seemed to trust Glenn more than the situation.

As you emerged from the dense forest, the camp Glenn had mentioned became visible through the trees. With each step, your legs felt heavier, and the sweltering heat made sweat trickle down your forehead and body. Glenn briefly stopped to check that you were still following, offering a supportive smile, while Daryl, in his own way, stayed alert, his crossbow always at the ready.

Finally, you reached a small clearing in the forest and turned left. That’s when you saw it: the camp. Just as Glenn had said, there was a trailer blocking a slope, and next to it, a smoldering campfire. Near the campfire, a picnic table and several chairs formed an improvised circle. A bit farther away, several tents were grouped around a small path cutting through the vegetation. The place looked humble but safe.

You had taken only a few steps when a burly man with an expression of both alertness and distrust approached quickly. “What’s going on, Glenn?” he asked in a deep, firm voice. He was Shane, who seemed to be leading the group at that moment.

Glenn raised a hand to calm him. “Everything’s fine, Shane. She’s from the city. She’s alone… and has a baby.”

Shane cast a quick glance at Alice, his expression softening slightly before turning back to you. “Alone, you say?”

“Yes, we checked,” Daryl interjected, finally lowering the crossbow but not taking his analytical gaze off you.

“Well, it’s better to talk to the rest,” Shane said in a less aggressive but still firm tone. “Lori and Carol are with the kids; maybe they can help with the baby.”

You observed several people engaged in various activities. Two blonde women, one clearly older than the other, were sitting and cleaning what you assumed were freshly caught fish. Further along, a dark-skinned woman was resting next to a burly man with a serious expression, who was relaxing in one of the chairs near the campfire. On top of the trailer, an older man with a fishing hat kept a calm watch from his position, holding a rifle firmly, as if he might need it at any moment. To your right, you noticed a Latino man and another taller man wearing a cap, checking a couple of cars.

Glenn, who stayed by your side, gave you a reassuring glance before speaking. “Come on, I’ll introduce you to the group.” He took a few steps forward, guiding you toward a pair of women sitting at an old picnic table.

“Hi, girls,” Glenn greeted with his usual friendly tone. “I want to introduce you to Y/N.” He made a hand gesture indicating for you to come closer.

The tall woman with brown hair, holding her son on her lap, looked up with a warm smile. “Hello,” she said as she stood up kindly. “I’m Lori, and this is my son, Carl.” She extended a friendly hand towards you, her smile genuine, as if trying to offer you some of the peace you were missing at that moment. You shook her hand in return.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper.

Glenn then turned to the woman next to her, who had a more reserved appearance but a calm presence. “And these are Carol and her daughter, Sophia,” Glenn continued, pointing to the little blonde girl playing with a rag doll.

Carol looked up with a discreet but warm smile. “Nice to meet you, Y/N,” she said softly, while Sophia looked at you with shyness, hugging her doll a bit tighter.

Lori noticed the small sleeping bundle in your arms, and her face softened even more. “Is that… your baby?” she asked delicately, as if trying not to invade your personal space.

The question gave you a pang in your chest, and you felt a brief wave of sadness. You shook your head slowly, looking at Alice with tenderness. “No… I’m not her mother.” The words came out in a whisper laden with sorrow, reminding you of how much Alice had lost in such a short time. “Her parents… are gone.”

Lori didn’t press further or ask more questions, understanding the pain implicit in your answer. She simply nodded with a slight smile that aimed to be comforting. “She’s very cute,” she commented gently. “You’re lucky to have her with you.”

After a brief silence, Glenn took charge of the situation again, now that everyone had been introduced. “Well, let’s see if we can find a place for you.” He gestured for you to follow him, leading you to the area where the tents were set up.

Walking together along the path between the tents, Glenn gave you a smile. “You know, we don’t usually get many visitors. I think Daryl thought you were here to steal our fish,” he joked, raising an eyebrow with a small laugh.

You returned the smile, grateful for the attempt to ease the tension. “Well, if I ever get to that point, you’ll know I’m desperate.”

Glenn chuckled and nodded. “You’re right, I wouldn’t mind if it’s for survival. Although, in that case, I’d offer you one myself. I work hard to keep us stocked,” he said with a wink.

As you arrived at a small cleared area, Glenn stopped in front of his tent. “We don’t have a tent for you yet, but you can use mine until we sort something out. Don’t worry, I can sleep in the trailer, there’s enough space,” he offered without hesitation.

You gave him an incredulous look, grateful but also a bit embarrassed. “Are you sure? I don’t want to impose.”

Glenn made a casual gesture with his hand. “Don’t worry, I’ve slept in worse places than the backseat of a car. Besides, how often in life can you say you were a gentleman and offered your tent to a lady?”

You smiled, feeling a bit more relaxed with his sense of humor. “Well, I guess I’m lucky to have met a gentleman in these times.”

Glenn returned the smile, apparently pleased that his joke helped you feel more comfortable. “You know, if you need anything else, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re a small community, but we take care of each other. And now that you and Alice are here, that includes you two as well.”

You felt deeply grateful for his kindness, something that already felt rare in such a shattered world. “Thank you, Glenn. It really means a lot.”

You entered the tent, grateful for the brief moment of tranquility. You knelt on the ground, observing what was in the small space: a sleeping bag, a backpack, and a couple of neatly folded clothes on one side. It was simple but cozy, and at that moment, you realized how exhausted you were. You sighed as you unfastened the harness holding Alice and gently placed her on the floor so she could move and stretch.

The baby, always restless, took advantage of her freedom and began to crawl around the small space. Despite the circumstances, seeing her curiosity about the world brought a small smile to your face. “You really need a good bath,” you commented softly, as if the little girl could understand your words. Alice, of course, simply looked at you with those lively eyes, emitting a babble as she smiled, completely oblivious to the harshness of the outside world.

With a clumsy but determined movement, Alice crawled back to you, raising her little arms as if wanting to be picked up. “Again?” you murmured, lifting the little one and holding her against your chest. “I’ve spoiled you too much, haven’t I?” you said with a slight laugh, as Alice rested her head on your shoulder, her small body immediately relaxing in your arms.

You gently stroked her back, feeling her breathing calm and steady. The need to protect her enveloped you strongly, like a silent promise you had made without even realizing it. This new place, this camp full of strangers, represented a risk, yes, but also an opportunity. An opportunity to find a respite, at least for a while, so that both of you could regain your strength.

Maybe it wasn’t so bad after all. Despite the initial distrust and the evident dangers of the outside world, these people seemed, at least, more human than what you had encountered before. Glenn had been kind, and the others had shown no signs of rejection. There was a certain sense of community in the camp, a spark of hope that seemed hard to find in these times.

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carlmipololo · 7 months ago

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Warm

Carl Grimes x Fem!reader

Fluff, blood, cramps (like, very, VERY bad cramps), comfort and loads of sweetness from Carl. (Most prolly ooc)

It was that time of the month you feared again, your period was one of the things you hated the most in the world, bleeding wasn't even that bad, the cramps were.

You had found out you were on your period that morning when you woke up in pain, your lower belly felt like it was being constantly stabbed, ripped apart by something sharp from the inside, and lucky for you, you had stirred your boyfriend awake too.

"What's wrong?" His voice was raspy and groggy, still laced with sleep as he rubbed his eye, looking at the way you remained sat in bed while holding your pelvic area, his eyebrows quickly furrowing in concern. "Is it that time of the month? Are the cramps bad?"

You can't help but nod at his questions, too preoccupied with your pain to actually want to try and mouth a reply for him, and he understands it, if you hated your period cramps he hated them ten times more, he couldn't stand seeing you suffer, and even less when it was a pain he couldn't really help with taking away.

Carl sits up and gently reaches forward for you, his touch soft on your skin as he makes you lay down again, switching places in bed as he checks for any kind of leakage you may have had in your sleep, he notices the stain and is quick to lift you up from the bed. "C'mon we gotta get you clean, alright? I'll change the bedsheets too."

He carries you to the bathroom, setting you down on the toilet, taking off the flannel he had used to sleep and placing it around your lower belly to provide some warmth to ease your cramps a bit as he starts the water to run you a bath, "just wait for a little, alright love?" he kisses your forehead tenderly before disappearing into the room for a couple of minutes, changing the bedsheets. Returning just in time to turn the water off, checking the temperature before helping you out of your pajamas, being mindful of your comfort as he tries not to stare too much or do anything you wouldn't want him to. "I can get inside myself."

He shakes his head, clearly not accepting that. "Nope, I don't want you passing out on me or something because you tried to tough it off, let me take care of you right now, please." You sigh and reluctantly accept, being carried and carefully set down inside the tub, the hot water soothing your swollen pelvic area.

Carl bathed you gently, his touch caring and sweet as he washed you, and now he had taken the mission of dressing you comfortably, a pair of new underwear along with a pad, his sweatpants and one of his t-shirts. "Where did you get a pad?" He smiles sheepishly, looking up at you "I asked Michonne for one for you, she gave me a couple more too."

You muster up a smile through the pain, Carl was always so sweet, so caring, when it came to you. "Thanks."

As Carl eases you back into bed and tucks you in you try and relax a little, but the pain is overwhelming even if you were already kinda used to it, and Carl knows that, so he's quick to pepper kisses on your face before leaving to go downstairs to the kitchen, returning shortly after with a plate of pancakes that were probably cooked by Michonne, a bag of hot water and a chocolate bar he was saving up in the freezer.

"Alright baby, let me take care of you." His hands are gentle as he places the bag of water over your lower belly, taking a seat beside you on the bed and feeding you patiently, helping to try and ease your pain through every painful cramp with kisses and sweet words.

[...]

"I can't take it, I hate this." You say softly and start sobbing, it had been hours and your pain only seemed to be getting worse, and Carl couldn't help but feel his heart ache for you. "It's alright, pretty girl, it's alright baby, let me get you a cup of tea and make you warm, that will help."

It doesn't take more than five minutes for Carl to be back with a hot cup of tea for you, which he places between your hands to let you drink at your own pace, he had also gotten you a couple pills of painkillers of his own that he had been given after his eye got shot off, it wouldn't take all the pain away, but he hoped to make it better.

As you finish drinking the tea and swallow the pills you ease back onto the mattress, hiccuping slightly from crying before as Carl envelopes his arms around you, warmth, that's what he provided, and you loved feeling warm with his love and care.

"I love you, Carl" you whisper as you let your head rest on his shoulder, your arms around his neck as he cups your lower back, gently massaging it. "I love you too, baby."

You drift off into a peaceful slumber, and so does he when he senses you're better now, and how to not be? If he kept you so warm and comforted, you felt like even the greatest pain eased between his arms.

What the fuck did I do help. Anyways, I'm bouta die from my own cramps, so this is for all the cramping girlies.

Also, deadass wanted to make Carl play-punch reader in the lower belly to say some corny ahh shit like "evil cramps, leave my princess alone" 💀

Tags: @carlslvr @crxssbowcarl @aurasplanet @lunarnightt @herrera2k @hiro--aoki @twds-things @carlsangel @smollbean42905 @girlthatsinsane

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jonesywrites · 1 month ago

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Y'all.

I've been out there. It's chaos and war out there. It's extreme opinions always, nuance be damned, bickering abound.

Y'all....Richonne is THE fandom..

We are The Ones Who Win.

The Ones Who Discuss Instead of Argue.

The Ones Who Actually Get Along and Remain Well Fed.

Everywhere else I've tried to go is like fighting through the goddamned apocalypse for real.

I just want to say THANK YOU, RICHONNE, for being the grown ass fandom that you are. My saving grace, my ride or die. No one is doing it like you. Not even close!

#richonne #rick and michonne #this fandom is my forever favorite of all time #never stop being you #rick x michonne

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whateverisbeautiful · 7 months ago

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♥️Reveling in Richonne - TOWL

#42: The Fuel (1.04)

gif cred: @kimwexlersponytail

Even when everything crashes down around them, Richonne's love always prevails. 🥹

And now that they’ve recentered on what truly fuels them, Richonne then gets every type of fuel they need to finally go home. So we gotta close out this masterpiece of an episode with the breakdown of ep 4's final glorious moments. 👌🏽😇

The fact that we were really spoiled from literally minute one to the final seconds of Episode 4 - I have to thank Danai one million times for writing this thoughtful Richonne love letter episode and forever thank Andy & Danai for performing every part impeccably 🙏🏽💐...

After deciding to go home together in such a well-earned way—which, that's another thing - the fact that Danai didn’t even need an extended episode to convincingly craft an arc where Richonne could start off more at odds than they’ve ever been, and then not just beautifully, but also believably and organically, bring them back together by the end, leaving them feeling more bonded than ever before. She’s an illustrious talent. 🤩

So now Richonne is ready to head out because this building is on its last legs. And as they walk, Rick is finally out of the CRM gear and in casual apparel for the first time with Michonne. And I loved seeing that. The hold the CRM had on him is finally removed. 😌

The temp controller announces another malfunction and says the elevator only has ten minutes of reserve power left. Which hearing that...it’s wild Rick and Michonne still used that elevator…even tho I’m glad they did. 😏

As they make their way to the door, they stop for a moment and I love the way it’s filmed with us being able to see them between the panels. Rick gets his blade ready and then he looks at the real source of his strength Michonne.

And then you already know I absolutely adore that Rick leans in for them to share a kiss before they head out of this place. It’s the sweetest thing. 🥰And it immediately lets you know Richonne really is back.

gif cred: @ricksmarlene

That kiss is pure gold and highly ranked for me, y'all. Like as quick as this moment is, it’s still so special and romantic. I appreciate any and every reminder that Rick and Michonne are each other's baby and that kiss was definitely giving that.

Also, I just have to reiterate that Danai wrote such a quality episode of television. I love how at the top of the ep we see Michonne first exit the apartment alone and in pain, and then later Rick exits the apartment alone and panicked, and then at the end they show Richonne leaving the apartment together and healed because they’re finally operating like the honest unit they’re meant to be.

And again, it’s impressive how earned it all feels with Richonne starting the ep more at odds than ever and then truly being on one accord and one being again by the end of the hour.

It's sweet that as they’re about to re-enter the walker-infested world they want this reassuring and comforting moment of connection as this kiss just communicates that they’re in it together no matter what they face outside these walls.

Then he whispers ready and she nods and Rick opens the door for Michonne to go through first. Bye, Apartment 👋🏽, you were very very good to us, chile. But now it’s time for Richonne to go home. Won’t He do it. 🙌🏽

So then once they enter the hall they have one of my favorite action sequences. I love the way it's choreographed for them to be so in sync through this whole thing. This action sequence said let us remind you who are the two baddest to ever do it. 😌

gif cred: @kimwexlersponytail

I love the way it really is like they’re killing these walkers as one in the way they’re tag-teaming. Michonne steps out the hall first but then Rick is ready to get the first one and then they just take them down like only they can and it’s a great sight.

And Rick loves the sight of Richonne in action too the way he takes a moment to look at Michonne as they walk forward. I love that it's always clear Rick is invigorated by the fact that he and Michonne are a power couple. And again, the merging of the red and blue light as it comes together to make purple is great and gives TOWL a fresh different vibe than TWD. Seeing Richonne walk in the purple light just feels like they too have blended back into one again. 😌

gif cred: @nerd4music

And then that elevator...😏

Y’all, let me express some gratitude for this elevator right here. It gave us some absolute gold, honey. 😇

gif cred: @nerd4music

They approach the elevator and work together to get a walker out of the way. And then once they enter, Rick kicks the walker's arm, and Michonne, serving with her stance, realizes hey we have some time while this elevator goes down so naturally she looks over at Rick with that 'my man, my man, my man' look.

Then Michonne grabs the strap of Rick's backpack and pulls her into him and we can see him rushing into her just as the blood-stained elevator doors close. I love it. 😋 Look at frisky Michonne wanting a piece of her man right now lol. 🤭 Who can blame her?

gif cred: @msanonships

And when I first watched I thought that was gonna be it. Like they were just going to imply that they make out in the elevator. But no being a Richonne stan means being hella spoiled and so we actually get to see this all play out. 😊

They cut to Richonne making out inside the elevator and it’s just so good.❤️‍🔥 Also, it's funny how you’d never guess that Michonne was the one who initiated this the way Rick so quickly matches the energy and throws her against that wall. Rick can't quite be outhungered when it comes to Richonne kisses lol.

Like Michonne's always on the same page with that intense immense love but Rick's always going to be the more extra one by a little bit. Here for it. 😋

gif cred: @nerd4music

They were real into it in that elevator and had themselves another moanversation. I love that they are always on the same timing and both crazy enough to be so unconcerned with the fact that this building is about to come toppling down. Like they are just passionately present in this hot moment and it’s great. 👌🏽😋

Richonne are really and truly irresistible to each other and I love how their desire is always on display. And you can just tell Michonne loves Rick’s assertive affection as he practically consumes her and she slides her finger down his face. And as for Rick...he's addicted to his wife in the best way. 😊

gif cred: @kimwexlersponytail

Also, I always like seeing that “Failure is never an option” sign because I be needing that reminder in life and also it just feels like a thesis statement or something as to why Richonne is always able to win. When they refuse to fantasize about failing they always come out on top together. 👌🏽

So they manage to pull themselves off each other enough to run and kill more walkers and make it out of the building as they make a run for the vehicle. I remember in 2023 there were those set pics from this outdoor running moment and it felt so nice to now get to see what that all was from. Little did we know it was filmed for the greatest Richonne episode of all time. 🤩

gif cred: @nerd4music

With Richonne outside we continue to get insight into the destruction going on inside the apartment, including the death of the temp controller I believe. RIP, to the narrator of Richonne's ep 4 journey.

And then Richonne make it to that yellow truck and let me tell you Richonne + cars is undefeated. 👌🏽 It’s always going to make for a golden moment and this one here of course is no exception. 😏

They run into the car and I adore the detail of Rick holding that book that Michonne said Judith would love. A whole FATHER. 😭🙌🏽 And this just goes to show that everything Michonne said to Rick when he had those walls up at the top of the ep was absolutely resonating with him even if he wasn’t fully letting on at first.

I mean, Rick always hangs on Michonne’s every word so of course everything she said stuck, especially about their children. (Also, it just hit me that that’s likely part of why Rick was thinking about getting a gift for RJ in the next episode since he knew they’re bringing the book as a gift for their daughter. 🥲)

gif cred: @ricksmarlene

So they get in the car but then Rick realizes there’s a slight complication as he tells Michonne it’s a “Stick shift.” I love the way Michonne looks at him and smiles when she realizes that means her little amputee cutie won't be able to drive this particular vehicle.

And y’all, since she has to drive that means Rick and Michonne have to switch seats. 😏 It's great how even a car being a stick shift can lead to Richonne gold, because this next moment is top tier. 🤩 Richonne stans, we ate good with TOWL, honey. 😇 Practically every second in this miniseries is rooted in Richonne’s romance. 🙌🏽

Also, I heard it was the episode's director Michael Slovis who had the idea for this next golden part, and I gotta take a moment to give Slovis his tens too. He did an outstanding job directing this Richonne love letter episode. 👏🏽💐

gif cred: @taiturner

So Rick and Michonne have to switch seats and they’re not gonna just get out of the car and do that - no, instead they attempt to just quickly climb over each other but, I’ve said it once I’ll say it 1000 times…Richonne are magnets. 🧲 So of course they couldn’t be that close to each other and not just start going to town again and making out. I love our hungry little couple that stays starving for each other. 😋

gif cred: @nat111love

When Michonne is on top of him you can see the determination on Rick’s face to turn this into something lol. And of course she’s on the same timing as they start making out. Like this building is really going to fall in mere seconds and they don’t give a damn. 🤭

They’re so happily distracted by their love and I’m here for it. They said that whole ‘love on each other as hard as we can while we can thing’ starts effective immediately. Also, only Richonne could make switching seats hot lol. 🔥

gif cred: @taiturner

Then it’s sweet to see the Roomba still going til it can’t go anymore. It’s resilient like Richonne.

Also, it was really smart to put a sort of timer in the episode, and a high stakes timer at that, with the fact that the ep took place in a building on the verge of collapse. It's symbolic of how Richonne had to come the closest they’ve ever come to wondering if perhaps their relationship is on the verge of collapse as well. But of course like the Roomba that just won’t quit, they emerge from the building together and stronger. Richonne isn't the building, they’re the Roomba.

gif cred: @worldbeyondz

And then y’all. Y’ALL. You already know what I’m about to address. It is now wonderfully canon to know 🗣 MICHONNE CALLS RICK 'BABY.'

gif cred: @nat111love

I know I was previously in the camp that heard Michonne call Rick 'baby' earlier in the bedroom scene but that one I didn't hear on my first watch. This 'baby' right here in this blessed yellow truck tho - undeniably clear. And so great. 🤩

They cut to the two still making out like it’s the only thing on the agenda, but then Michonne knows that it actually is coming down to the wire with the building about to fall. So she whispers to Rick, “Baby, I gotta drive.” 🫠🤩🫠🤩🫠🤩

From “You want to drive?” to “Baby, I gotta drive.” What a journey. 😭🎁

I didn’t know how much I needed to hear Michonne call Rick 'baby' but when I heard it I was like oh I’ve needed to hear this all my life lol.

So y’all, can I happy dance one time? Because hearing Michonne call Rick 'baby' makes me ridiculously happy. 😋

Now whenever I see any pre-canon TWD moments between Rick and Michonne I just stop and think wow one day she’ll call that man her baby. 😭 Like that’ll just be their norm because the way she says it and the way he responds, it’s clear he’s used to that. It’s so sweet and fitting. 🥰

I know we often like to wonder about Richonne pet names and I think it’s so cute that she calls Rick baby because really that is her baby. When I first heard this, y'all, I rewound it so much to make sure I didn't just imagine it lol. It was perfect. 😇

(Also since this kissing moment wasn't scripted and it was something Slovis suggested they do while filming, I'm assuming that would mean the 'baby, i gotta drive' was improvised as well. If so, I love that these talented creatives know just what to do and say with these characters 🙌🏽😊)

And I love that Michonne has to remind him that she has to drive because if she didn’t Rick would have been down to make RJ #2 up in that car. Like he’s lost in her yet again while their making out and of course, the moaning has returned. The man can’t help it. 😊

This whole lovely kissing moment further proves that for Rick the world can wait when he’s with Michonne. And the way Michonne says the line you can tell that the only reason she’s stopping is cuz they literally need to go. If they didn’t have to book it out of here right now…she’d be down for whatever too. You already know. 😋

gif cred: @worldbeyondz

I love how Richonne’s favorite thing is kissing each other breathlessly and how they prove time and time again that the magnet thing might as well be literal. Also, the fact that they kiss during every phase of this exit - at the apartment door, in the elevator, and in the car. Real lovers are back. 😍

And they are never beating the adrenaline kink allegations, y’all. But I love how they, like us, are very cognizant of the fact that Richonne in fight mode is a sexy thing.

And then I love that after she tells him 'Baby I gotta drive' they both laugh a little knowing how easily they get caught up. And then Rick is so refreshingly looser and more himself as he says, “Right. They made a stick shift electric car” and then he looks back and sees they left tanks of ethanol in the backseat.

gif cred: @taiturner

Let me repeat - The universe is a Richonner. 😋 The second Richonne got it together the universe was like here we’ll provide the fuel (and the food 🍜😉) and all the logistics.

I love how they both get excited learning the car is a hybrid. It reminds me when they were excited about those MREs in Say Yes.

So then Michonne notes how they have to thank the innovators for the hybrid and how those people clearly thought they could do anything and Rick says, “Yep but we can. ‘We can make this whole world ours if we want to.’” Do you know how much of a loverboy you have to be to quote your wife’s words from a DREAM? 🫠 Most swoon-worthy thing ever and I’m so here for it. 🙌🏽

gif cred: @machonnes

I love that Rick is back to believing in Richonne. 🥰 Also I always laugh when I think back to when I first watched this because I remember just being like 'Aw he’s quoting her from the proposal dream ☺️' and then I gasped and was like 'oh that is a clear sign that he’s going to give her a ring in TOWL 🫢.' Like Rick quoting Dream Michonne in this car made me know for sure a wedding ring was coming cuz he's thinking about that particular '5 Pizzas & a Wedding Ring' dream. 👌🏽

I love seeing playful Rick again and Michonne brings that out of him so often and so naturally. And Michonne’s reaction is great when she looks at him like 'I agree but also...what??' I love that she affirms it tho saying, “Yes we can. That sounds like something I’d say.”

gif cred: @machonnes

And then Rick all contently says, “It is.” Y'all, i'm crying. 🥹 What a touching, lighthearted, and meaningful way to close out this episode's dialogue. 👏🏽

I love that Michonne knows she’d say that phrase and that Rick knows it full well too. He’s like baby, my dreams of you are extremely accurate, trust me. And the way he studies that woman of course they are. 😊

It’s just so special that those dreams at one point were all Rick really had of her and now here he gets to refer to them with the woman herself after she’s loved him back to life.

gif cred: @taiturner

As they get the car going there’s a little jump scare when a walker hits Rick’s window, and seeing them both jump and then be like okay let’s go - if they got any cuter my heart would not be able to take it lol. And the fact that Andy improvised that jumpscare reaction. Love it.

Rick and Michonne were just so back. Like they’re back to being the Richonne that’s playful, and flirty, and fully connected. A clear weight has been lifted off them and they're so in tune with each other again and it fills my heart with joy. 🥰

They drive and then it feels very poetic to see the building finally fall. I love the way Danai described the building as a cocoon that would determine if Richonne really can come out butterflies. And they soared out beautifully. 😭🦋

It also feels very symbolic of the way the walls Richonne had up around their hearts at the start of the episode have also officially fallen as they're back to being one in every way.

So having served its purpose of helping Richonne reconnect and bloom, the building could now come down. It’s almost like all the hard things they expressed and went through get to tumble down with the building as they head into a brighter horizon.

gif cred: @perryabbott

Having made it out just in time, Michonne watches the building fall from the rearview mirror and just smiles knowing she and Rick are finally back on track and on their way home like she's long been wanting.

gif cred: @machonnes

Then as Michonne smiles she has this loving look over to Rick and of course he’s already looking her way. 🥰 I love how his look over at her was such a loud and clear 'I love you.'

You just know that as he looks at her he knows he’s gonna be getting down on one knee with a ring the second he has a chance.

gif cred: @machonnes

And then the way he looks down with a smile. 😭 At this moment I really think ‘I’m so in love with her’ is the direct quote from his mind. That and “How’d I get so lucky finding you again.”

gif cred: @machonnes

And Michonne can feel the love as she has her own 'I love you' smile at Rick and looks forward. That's the smile of a woman who knows good things can happen when you and your husband take a plunge out of a helicopter. 👌🏽

That’s also the smile of a writer who just knocked it all the way out of the park writing this brilliant episode. 🔥👏🏽

gif cred: @machonnes

And a surefire way to make me happy is to see Richonne happy, so I absolutely adore that this stunning episode ends with Richonne’s smiles. They’re together. They’re happy. They’re in love. All is well. 😌

As they drive off, I adore the Asibe Happy song they use. I love that it feels like a homage to Danai to have it be music from the motherland. And just the lyrics are so fitting saying We're happy/We're in love/They tried to come between us but they failed. The vibe is so different from TWD in a really cool way and it’s just a great choice. 👌🏽

It’s funny tho because my extra self had this song stuck in my head for a few days after the episode aired and despite it having a positive vibe I could not stop getting choked up when hearing it. 🥲 Like now for me the song represents Richonne overcoming and driving off into the sunset and it’s so beautiful and feels so much like a happily ever after ending that the music was constantly making me want to shed tears.

gif cred: @coolpartytimefan

But while it could have easily felt like this was the end of the story and Richonne was driving off into the sunset for good as this masterful episode faded to black…we still weren’t done yet. 😌

TOWL still had two more episodes of Richonne gold to give us with some very wonderful developments in their relationship. 👌🏽

But before we head into the final two episodes of TOWL, let me just conclude the 'What We' posts by saying Wow. This is how you do a moving, meaningful, and masterful episode of television.

What Danai so thoughtfully created with this episode exceeded expectations and truly shined the brightest light on why Richonne is so very special. Why it’s my Roman Empire. Why it’s my favorite depiction of love of all time. 😍

Never have I written so much about one TV episode, but I knew I’d have to go all out for Episode 4 because it’s what this important experience deserves. Every emotion, every scene, every choice, was pure excellence. 👏🏽

Andy and Danai have some of their greatest performances ever and I love that this episode was so packed with riveting dialogue and so focused solely on the two fascinating characters of Rick and Michonne and their extremely compelling relationship. It really gave Andy and Danai the space to again solidify why they're the best in the business and why Richonne is the greatest TV couple of all. 👑

I’m so grateful to them for giving their all as the people who bring Richonne to life and to Danai for writing something so inspiring and exceptional. 🔥

I’ll thank her 1000 times for lovingly and diligently crafting a Richonne episode that is food for the soul and delves into love, pain, trauma, and triumph with such honesty, creativity, and care.

This franchise and fandom are so fortunate to have such an astronomically gifted actress and writer share her gifts this way. 💯

Episode 4 was immensely heartfelt, hot, humurous, healing and profoundly human. It'll stick with me forever. It's embedded in my heart and I wouldn’t have it any other way.🥹

It's not every day you get to see your favorite thing reach its peak of perfection but that's what this episode was for me - capturing the mesmerizing depth and beauty of Richonne at its absolute best. So I'll cherish this shining treasure of an episode always.👌🏽😌

#thanks for going through every detail of Episode 4 with me 🙏🏽💛#richonne's ultimate love letter episode 🥹#thank you danai 💐🖊🔥 thank you andy 💐🎭🔥 thank you slovis 💐🎬🔥#richonne #towl #reveling in richonne #1.04 #RIR (42)#the ones who live #twd towl #michonne grimes #rick grimes #rick x michonne #twol #michonne #rick and michonne #twd: the ones who live #twd #richonnefandom

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