#the walking dead rick

[daryltwdixon]

how have I never seen this x

[banquetwriter]

୨୧ Brat ୨୧

pairing: Rick Grimes ♡︎ fem!Reader

warnings: ୭̥⋆*｡ use of daddy, one spank, dom/sun dynamic, multiple orgasms, pure filth tbh, reader acts helpless on purpose, brat tamer vibes

summary: ʚ Rick forgets your anniversary and he makes it up to you ɞ

Words: 2432

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You had your arms crossed a pouty look on your face. Rick rolled his eyes slightly, standing behind you. “Darlin’ please I-I never meant to hurt you,” he said, sitting behind you.

One leg on either side of the picnic bench. His rough strong hands land on the sides of your arms. You let out a frustrated whine, moving forward away from his touch.

“Y/n I didn't realise what day it was I promise I didn't go on the run to hurt you. I just didn't know what day it was,” he said slowly pressing his body up against yours.

You were in the cutest of dresses, your hair done up decently nice (considering it was the apocalypse) even made some of that homemade makeup bullshit.

You look like the cutest most beautiful thing Rick has ever laid his eyes on ever. Had it been normal life and he forgot your anniversary, sure he wouldn't mind you being a brat about it.

But this wasn't normal life. Not everyone had access to a calendar anymore, and sure some people kept track but Rick didn't. And he sure as hell was surprised you did. He knew it was coming up.

It was that time of year again, the spring. “Come on y/n don't be such a brat,” he murmured in your ear. You turned away from his face still giving him the silent treatment.

He let out a deep sigh not having the time to fight with you. “Alright listen this is what we're gonna do. I'm gonna go out and pick up your gift and when I come back I expect you to have left that attitude somewhere else. Do you understand me?” he said in a stern voice.

His hands slightly tightened on your soft flesh. It sent a shiver up your spine and heat to your core. “Fine,” you muttered out. Moving away from him, standing up, and walking to your shared room.

Rick licked his lips, “Alright. I'll be back soon.” he muttered, gripping the door handle and leaving the house.

It wasn't until a few hours later that Rick showed back up in the house you both called home. Slicked back hair, a new shirt, some new lingerie, and a bundle of flowers. He strained his back and walked down the hall.

He looked into your room to see you reading a book lying on your stomach. He lifts the hand holding the flowers up and uses his knuckle to knock on the open door.

You turned around greeting him with a much happier-looking face. You set the book on the nightstand and turned around slightly. You slowly bite your lips looking at your new gifts.

“Well hey there pretty girl,” he says setting the flowers and gifts down on the other nightstand. You let out a small chuckle, letting him crawl into the bed basically on top of you.

“How are you? Less bratty now? Yeah?” he mumbled moving a piece of hair out of your face. You nod with a simple pretty smile that could send Rick down to his knees. He cups the right side of your face leaning down to kiss you on your forehead.

He leans back up eyeing your figure in the tight-fitting dress. You feel your cheeks begin to warm under his gaze. His hand slides down to your lips parting them slightly.

He brushes them slightly sending heat waves to your core. “So beautiful…” Rick whispers looking at your face. His hand slides down further to your jaw, turning your head right and left.

“Sit up on the pillows.” your husband murmurs, moving off the bed completely. You obey scooting up to your pillows and sitting, letting your legs fall open slightly.

Rick stands on the edge of the foot of the bed, hands placed on each end of the bed looking down at you. His eyes were dominantly dark, you wanted to squirm under his gaze.

Rick stands back up tall shedding his shirt off. You rake in his form. God, he was beautiful. Scars littered his chest, and a good patch of hair as well as his happy trail led to the thing you wanted in you most.

“You ready? You want this?” he asks looking at you, a deep look of love in his eyes. You knew that if you said yes this would be the last time you would see that look for hours. Complete domination of a man would overtake him.

And you wanted nothing more than that.

“Yes…daddy” you murmur with a smug grin. He cocks his head to the right slightly. He grabs the comforter of the bed shaking your entire body with a swift move. You let out a gasp.

Rick grabs your hips and thighs and drags you down flush to his body. Feeling a small bulge growing in his pants. You try and wiggle out of his touch, squirming left and right.

Ricks's hand comes down on your hands and arms, “Quit moving brat.” he whispers in a deeply threatening tone. You give him a pout of sadness but you're so turned on.

You felt your sex start leaking with arousal. Letting out a whine of protest lets Rick know that you're far from done being bratty. He leans down kissing and teasing your neck.

His rough lips moved up and down your sensitive skin, nibbling on your jaw slightly. The flat of his tongue dragged up. You moan out trying to buck your hips into him.

His left hand slams down on your hips keeping you in place. “Rick!” you whine out trying to tease him more. He pulls away from your neck and shifts his knee in between your legs putting it right on your unclothed heat.

After Rick left for your gifts you thought it would be a good idea to go completely commando. You realize that it's gonna give you a lot more trouble than it might have been worth.

Rick's knee pressing evenly on your clit wasn't exactly what you needed or wanted but it sure as hell wasn't nothing. Your count began drooling all over him as he moved his hand off your hip and above your head stabilizing himself to bring his left hand to your jaw and neck.

His fingers slip around the sides of your neck squeezing it. You let slip another moan this one getting trapped in his mouth as he leans down kissing you roughly.

His dick straining heavily in his pants at the sight and sounds of you. God, you were a beautiful soul. It was like your body was hand-carved for him. He hoped only to bring you an ounce of the pleasure you gave him daily.

“Rick please…” and you whine out, his teeth clashing against his. Maybe being a brat wasn't such a good idea. You couldn't help it. You wanted all of his attention to yourself. A mean and rough man to take care of you.

Ricks's hand leaves your neck and lands on your face in a smack. You whine, pressing down on his knee, feeling a small wave of pleasure.

Your husband sits up, pushing your dress up to your stomach. Revealing your bare cunt leaking on his pants. “Oh what a poor little brat,” he says, fingers slowly moving to your cunt. He gingerly spreads it open revealing just how wet you were.

“This what's been troubling you?” he asks sticking one of his digits into your sopping arousal. “Mhm!” you nod eagerly. “That's what's been making you such a little bratty girl? Just a needy cunt?” he says in such a mocking tone.

“God no wonder you've been all bratty huh? Needed some good loving didn't you?” he whispers.

His rough voice plus his small ministrations were slowly filling your body with warmth and tingles. “M sorry Daddy,” you admit, trying to grind down on his finger. “Baby girl, why didn't you use your big girl voice and tell me huh? You know I'm always willing to help you right?” he says slipping a second finger in, starting to move even faster.

His thumb presses on your clit starting to rub just how you like it. “M said I was sorry Daddy! You forgot about me n I just wanted you!” you whined. “I know baby I know,” he says keeping his pass, rubbing harder on your sensitive button.

You felt the familiar feeling in your tummy pool, a coil waiting to snap. It felt like pleasure was in your bones, deep-seated love planted by your husband. “You feel so good, m gonna cum.” you whimper letting the pleasure slowly start to take over.

“Good girl, come on baby,” Rick says leaning down again and kissing up and down your neck/ jaw. The coil was threatening to snap, as his fingers pumped in and out, curling to your G spot.

“Oh my god.” you breathe out. Your back arches as your cunt clenches on his fingers. Tingling waves of heat tracked through your whole body.

Your visions dimmed and faded out for a few moments when your breath returned to a more normal pace. By the time you noticed, you felt Ricks's tongue slowly licking up your leaking juices.

“Poor thing, well that's all she needed huh?” he teased you, hands gripping your thighs. You moaned as he barely let your sensitive cunt recover.

His warm tongue moved and curled to your G spot as he moved a hand to finish rubbing your clit. You moaned his name like it was a prayer. Begging to keep going. Your second orgasm came quicker than the first one, between the lewd sounds of Rick eating you out like you were his last meal and his death grip on you; you didn't last long.

You grabbed the sheets, as you started to grind down on his face trying to feel every inch of him possible. “M gonna cum again, please,” you begged, again feeling your body teetering on the edge.

He pulls away keeping his moving fingers on your clit. “Do it. Do it for me,” he says, his words vibrating into your greedy cunt. “Mm, fuck.” you whined. You were sure your poor neighbors were going to complain.

Your orgasm washes over you, feeling your legs shake with the sheer force of your husband's desire. He slowly stopped his movements, pulling away.

His face is covered in your liquid, his hair sleek with a shine from sweat. You looked up at him, body on fire as your breathing returned to normal.

“You alright there y/n?” he asks looking at your almost dazed sight. You nodded ‘yes’ watching as he slowly undid his belt. Letting his pants fall seeing his, what must be a painfully hard erection.

He pulls his boxers down, his dick slapping his stomach once it sprang back up. Your eyes flutter a little looking at his being cock. It was so perfect, almost made for you it seemed.

“Sit up, take your dress off the rest of the way,” he says pumping his cock a few times to get it ready for your needy cunt. You giggle as you follow his directions. Sitting up removing the dress.

You toss it on the floor next to you. Eyeing up your husband, licking your lips slightly taking in the sight of his naked and erect body. You let your legs fall open, revealing your most intimate part of yourself to him.

“Get over here” he barks once again grabbing your hips and pulling you flush against him. You giggle looking up at him, “Oh you think something is funny huh?” he asks, pumping his needy cock with his hand.

“Mm nooooo..” you giggle out biting your fingernail. “S’ what I thought,” he says, grabbing your hand and putting it on your clit instructing you to rub. You obey as you prepare yourself for his cock.

He brings the tip up to your entrance, moving in slightly. Feeling his tip press into you. You gasp in the slight stinging sensation it brings, taking your hand off your body and gripping the sheets.

“I know honey, I know. Just hold tight for a second ok? Almost all the way in.” he says continuing his plummet into your body. You nod angling your hips so he can slide into the deepest part of you.

He makes it all the way in as you both moan out for each other. “Fuck.” he mutters, once again moving your hand back down to have you rub your clit.

He begins pumping in and out of you, slowly of course at first. Feeling your pleasure return for your third orgasm. “Rick,” you whimper out bringing your unoccupied hand to his hair. He follows suit plunging his hand into your hair, mouth roughly kissing you.

His body was flushed with red, as he pumped inside of you slowly coming to his own end of pleasure. You couldn't take it anymore letting your orgasm cleanse through you like a prayer. Your back arched, cunt squeezing him perfectly.

Rick closed his eyes pulling away from your mouth and letting his head rest on your neck. He felt your rapid breaths cool slowly as he quickly fucked himself to his own release.

Letting out a grunted moan as his hot white load shoots into you. He pulls out of you and lets his body rest on top of yours. You left your head kissing his forehead.

He lifts his own head smiling up at you, “there is my pretty girl huh? Just needed the brat fucked out of you.” he taunted you. But just like you knew his eyes weren't dark with dominance anymore, just love filled them.

He stands up walks into the restroom grabs a towel, cleans himself up then gingerly cleans your exhausted sex.

He holds his hand out helping you walk to the restroom, where you clean yourself off completely and use the restroom. When you open the door you're greeted with a halfway-dressed Rick.

With a pair of comfy pants on but no shirt. He hands you an oversized tee shirt with a pair of comfy panties. You smiled pulling them on, resting in the comfortable silence with him. His hands wrap around your waist holding you close to him.

His mouth is attached to yours slowly letting his love for you spill out. Both of you collapse in the bed under the covers to cuddle, his warm rough hands rubbing your body as he encourages you to drink some water.

“Happy anniversary baby.”

[rickgrimesfever]

Rick Grimes Headcanons

Synopsis: SFW and NSFW headcanons of Rick Grimes x fem! reader

SFW:

You cannot convince me that Rick wouldn't be the best boyfriend ever even in the apocalypse.

He's so overprotective especially in the world you're forced to live in now.

He's always walking ahead of you, prepared to take out any walkers that might stumbled across, knowing that you have his back.

His kisses are soft, but they take your breath away.

Rick always kisses you before leaving to do something dangerous or when he's going on a run.

You can see in his blue eyes just how much you really mean to him.

If he doesn't express his love in his physical affection, he definitely does in his words.

His leadership low-key depends on you.

Rick goes to you for reassurance and always ask what you think of the situation before making a decision.

When Negan comes around, you are Rick's comfort and safety.

He loves it when you rub his back and even scratch it.

Rick feels the weight lifting off his shoulders when he can just come lay down on your chest and close his eyes.

This man will kill for you, he probably already has.

Rick gets this dark, stirring look inside of his eyes when someone hurts you.

No words are needed, he'll just march over to whoever hurt you and slit their throat.

Overprotective and definitely a little possessive when Negan comes around.

A hand is always on your back or waist when you're walking together in Alexandria or the Hilltop.

Rick may not always say 'I love you' all the time, but he always expresses his love to you.

Calls you 'angel, sweetheart, or honey'.

Big on the 'sweetheart' though. It's his favorite pet name for you.

Rick has trouble sleeping sometimes, so he usually makes sure you fall asleep first.

There are days when the bags underneath Rick's eyes are popping out and he looks more exhausted than usual.

You'll pull him aside and make him rest your head on your lap, fingers running through his curly locks as he falls into a deep sleep.

NSFW:

Rick could spend hours in between your thighs, tongue sucking on your clit and his fingers shoved inside of you.

He loves when you squirm against him, thighs trembling as his hands are steady on your hips.

Rick is very vanilla in bed, but he's not against new ideas.

He likes missionary because he can see your face and shower your face in kisses.

He definitely whispers dirty things into your ear as he's thrusting in and out of you.

One thing that is definitely off limits in bed is any sort of pain.

Maybe a few spanks, but he would never be rough with you.

Rick hates it when you're in pain, so he would refuses to do anything that might potentially hurt you.

He wants to make sure that you're comfortable and that he's giving you pleasure.

Rick tries his hardest to make you cum first, but there are times when he just can't help it.

Don't worry though, your man will make sure you cum at least three times then.

If you decide to get down your knees, Rick's hand is wrapped around your hair, tugging on it.

Something lights up inside him when you stuff your cock inside of your mouth.

Rough sex is not often, but only when the two of you are a mood and both consent.

Rick makes sure that you have a safe word, but you know deep down that you'll never have to use it.

Rick's aftercare is pretty basic.

He'll clean you up, make sure you're okay and pull you into his arms, cuddling until you fall asleep.

[thewritersaddictions]

Day Three: Rick Grimes + Bondage.

He had promised you he'd try anything you asked him for, whether that was simply getting home or something more serious. He would try his hardest to give it to you.

Rick knows that you give your all. You are the perfect image of a wonderful person, a wonderful stepmother to Carl, but most of all, you are a wonderful wife. One who craves to be one with Rick. You two are the power couple of Alexandria.

You think that your wants expisally this want would be denied. You all have gone through too much trauma to deal with this sort of request. Yet the idea plays over and over in your head. The thought of riding Rick while his arms are bound above his head. Tied to the metal frame of the old bed, the way you'd hope he'd beg for your mercy as you tried not to give into his demands.

Secretly wishing that he'd somehow break the bounds around his wrist and flip the two of you over, his cock wedged into your soft walls. You'd love the feeling of the air being punched from your lungs as Rick fucked you with an unforgiving pace, nothing less for his girl.

So that's what happened. Asking Rick to let you have utter and complete control. The bedroom window shades are drawn, and the bedside table lamp brings warmth to the room. A sexy black lingerie number hugs your curves as you sit on Rick's lap. You ensured Rick was comfortable before grabbing and looping the rope around the metal bedframe.

Rick had laid down the minute after the question hit the air around the both of you. Muscles bludge as you move his arms above his head and wrap the rope around his wrists.

A few re-tying of the rope and a few violent shakes of Rick's writs, and he's bound. Unable to touch you or kiss you. Your hips move at an unforgiving, slow pace. His cock pulses from the rolling of your hips.

It's not until you pull Ricks's length from out of his boxers and tease yourself with the bulbous head of his cock do you start to wish that there weren't ropes tied around his wrists. Instead, he could just do the work for you. Slip into your slick wallls, and fuck you at whatever pace he wants.

Except that's not what's happening. Instead, your legs sit on either side of his thighs and slowly work down the length of his cock with ease. Letting every ridge and vein be felt. "Fuck, sweetheart." He murmurs with tightly shut eyes and breathing that's got no rhyme to it at all.

Your hands fall to his chest as your boobs bounce in his face. Teasing him further. The echo of skin slapping and soft moans fall around the two of you. With your slow pace, you start to thrive as the aching need for more of Rick sets in. Nails digging into Rick's hairy chest and lips barely grazing each other.

"God Fucking Damn it, darling, Ride me, baby, that's it." Rick's voice is smooth like butter, easing you further into your euphoric trance. Your hips shake as your bounce on his cock, unwilling to give either of you a reprise of the delicious feeling coating both of your bodies.

You don't let Rick's binds go until your face is pressed into Rick's chest's hot skin, and your breathing has slowed down. His wrists are bare a little from the constant tuggin' to be able to touch you. You press kisses into the sensitive skin, apologizing for wrapping the rope too tight around his wrist. "Don't you dare apologize darlin?. I loved every single second of that, now about how we go take a bath."

Completed on: 07/20/24

Posted on: 10/03/24

Kinktober 24-

[cainache]

that sullen girl ♱ rick grimes

Rick knows you’re younger. You’ve got at least 13 years on him. And maybe in a life before that double digit number would’ve stopped him and he would’ve dragged his mind elsewhere. Stuck to what was “right”.

But he’s lost too damn much in the last few years to overthink this. He cares about you. It’s as simple as that. He wants you to be okay. Always.

And Alexandria is new territory. It’s terrifying how perfect it is here. An untouched world.

Rick knows a majority of his group is settling in, grateful to have a safe roof and walls around them. He’s glad his kids are safe.

Rick also knows you’re one of the ones still skeptical of where you guys are trying to take home in. Like Daryl.

Though, you’ve taken a shower.

Everyone in the group seems to have connections to an olden life, you don’t fall under that. Your younger kid sister closed her eyes for the final time a few months ago, Rick guesses. He knows it feels longer.

You’ve gotten quiet since then. He doesn’t blame you, the same damn thing happened to him after Lori—his reaction was a bit worse though.

He just doesn’t want you to lose yourself. You’ve got a good self. You keep him well.

Though, he can’t find you. It’s making him a little nervous, though, he tries not to show it.

He goes walking for awhile before he does find you, it’s a mistake when he does. Your hair a flash in his peripheral. He paused his walk and see’s you fully.

You’re with the graves.

You’re bent at the knees, all your weight resting on your balancing feet. You’re before your sister’s grave. A few flowers under the wooden pallet with her name craved into it.

Rick knows there’s not anything under that grass, six feet under. He knows it bothers you, even if you don’t say anything. He knows them having to bury your sister in the middle of nowhere under a large tree months ago bothers you too, even if you don’t say it.

He’s gotten good at reading you.

He walks over slowly, hands shoving in the pockets on his jeans. You hear him before you see him. “Hi, Rick.” You say gently, you seem to know him as well as he does with you. You know his steps, he hasn’t gotten there with you—yet.

He smiles small, it’s almost like a frown. “Hi, sweetheart.” His voice is deep and soft, softer than it normally is. He only talks to you like that, and Judith.

He sees you shift a little, like you’re getting up. He pushes a hand out for you and you take it without a second wasted. “You alright?” He asks gently. He can see the color draining from your eyes with each day passing. You get more tired. More like sludge under his palms. You aren’t sure how to move on. He wishes he could take your pain, though, he knows you’d never let him have it. He’s had more than you, you know he has, even if he wouldn’t agree. We’ve all lost something, he’d say. He’s right, but still. No one’s lost like Rick.. Nor what he’s done to stop from losing more.

You nod, your eyes on your sister’s name and your hand still in Rick’s. “Yeah. I’m okay. Just wanted to say hi to her, I guess..” Your voice fades off and your shoulders sink. He can see you roll your eyes at yourself. He hates when you’re cruel to yourself. You need to give you more credit.

Rick frowns gently. He squeezes your hand before letting it go, and his arm slips over your shoulders instead. His fingers mess gently with the ends of your hair, it’s gotten longer since he’s met you. It’s been years.

You sigh and lean into him, “sorry I disappeared. Should’ve told you I was heading out.” You know him too damn well. His worries. His fears.

Yeah, he feels good in Alexandria, but old habits never die.

He hums, pulling you even closer, if possible. His eyes are on your sister’s name. “Don’t apologize. I get it.”

You hum gently and finally look away from your sister’s empty grave. Your arms weave around Rick’s waist and you push your face softly into his side. His chin leans down on the crown of your head. He feels you hold onto him tighter.

“Things are okay, right?” You whisper into his clothed skin.

They are, for now at least.

He nods against your head, his other arm wrapping around you. “Yeah,” he says soft and quiet. “Everything’s alright, baby.”

He kisses your head. You squeeze him even tighter, makes his lungs feel like they’re going to pop with admiration.

You’re a strong sullen girl, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

[slumberingcorpse]

Daryl coming back to Alexandria at the end of season 5:

[twdxtrevor]

Who gave this man the right to be so mother fuckin ATTRACTIVE . .

[twigg96]

I Should Have Been There

Daryl Dixon X Bitten Reader fic

Era: Alexandria

Pronouns: She/Her/You/[Y/N]

Warnings: Cannon divergent, talks of illness and zombie bites in detail, kidnapping, descriptions of limp amputation, blood, talks about prosthetics, Angst, Hurt/comfort

Summery: After Daryl goes out for a run, Pete Anderson asks you to help him carry some records back to his office for him. What you never expected of the doctor was to be locked up in a torture chamber with a walker as a punishment and statement for Rick to take heed to not fuck with him or his family ever again. It's up to Glenn, your best friend since before the outbreak, Daryl your boyfriend, the ingenious thinking of Maggie, the invisible nature of Carol's investigation skills, and Rick your over protective leader to find you. But will they find you in time to save your life?

Your POV

Walking around the walls of Alexandria for the 100th time that day you began to feel. The cabin fever beginning to take hold of you. Being out on the land for so long, free to go where you wanted, run where ever you wanted with the threat of walkers being the only thing keeping you awake at night truly was a luxury you were missing around now. Rick and Michonne had instructed everyone to keep your heads down. Keep to yourselves as much as possible. So you did as told even if you did wish Daryl had smuggled you on his bike on his latest run outside. But if anyone needed the escape more than you it was your boyfriend. With a deep sigh you tapped the metal of the wall with your wrench listening vaguely for any sounds of defaults or hollowness in the sound that reverberated back to you indicating a missing nut or rust that needed to be brushed away. Maggie, your chore partner for this particular job looked over her shoulder to you eyeing you with her dark eyes. "What? Am I not entertaining enough company fer ya?" She teased, knowing exactly what was bothering you. The poor brunette had her ear chewed off for hours the night before when you found out your boyfriend had taken yet another long run without even saying a word goodbye. "No..." You muttered, boredom dripping from your voice. "Just antsy." You replied not even looking to the walls anymore as the two of you continued your rounds. "How about this?" Maggie muttered, turning around on her heel so that she was walking backwards facing towards you. "We finish our shift, and I'll talk Deanna into letting us sneak past the gates for an evening stroll picking flowers?" She cocked a brow making the offer sound as enticing as she could. Picking flowers sounded like the most boring job a person could have especially when there were so many more exciting jobs to be had. But if it gave you an opportunity to escape this Hell for a little you would put up with anything. "Sure." You smiled, brushing some hair behind your ear.

"Morning ladies." A voice deep and sickeningly prideful called out to you both pulling your attention. You struggled to hide your disgust as you stared at the town's doctor, Pete Anderson. A dirty blonde towering idiot of a man who thought that using intimidation would get him places. Oh how wrong he had been once Rick had found out what he was doing to his wife... however his usual cockiness had returned and his air of superiority seemed to permeate even the space the three of you held, which worried you if you were being honest. "Can I have your help with something?" He asked, tucking his bruised hands into his pockets. "Just need help carrying some medical records and would appreciate the second pair of hands." He muttered meeting your eyes momentarily before turning them to the ground. Turning to Maggie you shared a glance, one that spoke more than words ever could. One of mistrust for the doctor but knew, in order to keep the peace with the town that one of you should at least try. Silently, Maggie glanced to the next wooden watch tower not even three tracker trailer lengths away. Atop it sat a very bored looking Glenn, his back pressed to the metal wall, his baseball cap pulled over his eyes, rifle resting comfortably over his lap. If you didn't know better you'd think the Korean was sleeping. But experience with your best friend had proved that the apocalypse had shaped him into one light sleeper. Maggie gave you a small almost indistinguishable look that told you to go. She'd stay and she and Glenn would come for you if she didn't see you by the time she reached her husband's post. Nodding you turned back to the doctor you shoved the wrench you carried deep in your pocket and stepped forward. "Lead the way, doc."

You watched the sky turn a ruddy orange as Pete lead you past rows and rows of very similar housing. If it wasn't for small lawn ornaments, flower and vegetable gardens growing, and hand made decorations you would have never been able to distinguish the houses apart. Placing his hand on your arm, Pete ushered you through a tight ally between two houses and into a space you never knew existed. Not that you ever explored beyond the main populace for fear of becoming eternally lost amongst the suburban hell. Beyond the pampered lawns of owned society were the untamed untended lawns of houses yet to find a owner. Their windows were dark and dust covered. Some were boarded with windows broken presumably from rocks thrown from the local hooligans that roamed the streets after dark. Pete lead you to one of the homes, a small nearly invisible basement door had been painted over making it nearly indistinguishable with the rest of the rest of the house's foundation aside from a rusted padlock that held the door shut and had warn with the elements. Pulling a set of keys from his pocket, Pete tried several of them with various levels of success before finally popping it open with a small click. Pocketing the lock, Pete unlatched the door and swung the door open with a loud squeak.

The basement was dark and dusty. Dirt laid on every surface that was bathed in light from the doorway. Mice droppings scattered the floor and the smell of stale air and mold filled the air making your stomach turn. The doctor however pushed forward into the darkness turning on a flashlight you never knew he possessed. Following close behind the man who craned his neck while swiping at spider webs that threatened to get in his face. "So where are these records at?" You muttered lowly, glancing at the man only now noticing how dark his bags under his eyes had gotten since your arrival. Dr. Anderson never responded instead he pointed his torch towards a wooden door locked with another series of padlocks. You cocked a brow but didn't question anything, HIPPA was a thing in the early world... you simply assumed he was one of the only ones who still adhered to it. Kicking an empty can of fruit to the side that must have fallen from one of the wooden shelves surrounding you, a sudden deep growl stopped you in your tracks. Grabbing the doctor's shoulder tight enough to bruise you quickly placed your finger to your lips. A walker?! Here in the town?! Maybe the house was inhabited at one point and the owner died? Grabbing the wrench from your pocket you wished you had been smart enough to grab your knife from the armory that morning. Pete swung his light around where you pointed. To the floor to look for crawlers then through the shelving. You saw nothing but the shadows that made you even more wary then you already were. Looking above yourself you assumed that the walker had died in the upper levels of the home... You'd have to come back with Rick later to deal with it... "Let's get these records. Just keep your voice down." You whispered gesturing to the door with the padlock. The doctor nodded pulling his keys from his pocket to unlock the lock.

As the lock knocked against the latch, the growling grew, and your patience dwindled. "Jesus can you be any fucking louder?" You whispered, glaring at the man. "Doctors are supposed to have steady hands... right?" You hissed, ready to rip the keys from the quivering man's hands yourself and do it yourself. "Shut the fuck up." Dr. Anderson growled back unlatching the lock at last. Flipping the lock and unlatching the door with one motion Pete too a step back behind you, shoving you forward through the door. The unexpectedness of it all made you trip over the high step in the doorframe. You lost your grip on your wrench and it flew from your hand and skittered onto the floor into the darkness of the room. "Ah... what the-" You called out turning to Pete, a devilish grin crossing his illuminated face. "Rick thinks he can save everyone... Lets see him save you..." He muttered darkly. Your eyes widened at the doctor's words and a deep low growl echoed from further into the room. The sickening smell of decomp hit you like a truck and the silhouette of something vaguely human limped into the light. Scrambling to your feet you tried like hell to reach the door before it was slammed shut. But only you were too late. Scratching and banging your palms against the wood of the door you could hear your heart beating in your ears. No! No no nO! This isn't how it was supposed to go! "Pete please let me out!" You begged hearing the latch close and lock click. "I wager you have three days before you die of thirst... lets see how long it takes Rick to notice you're gone." Footsteps leading away from the door were followed by a small rustling and a high pitch squeak from the other door closing.

The growls from behind you grew only louder but in the pitch dark you had no idea how close or how many walkers existed in the small space. Pressing yourself firmly to the grimy walls you slowly started to skirt along the permitter feeling the cold wet cement under your fingers. Faintly you wondered what it was that was wet before figuring it was better to live in ignorance than disgust. As you rounded the first corner you found the sharp corner of something tall and heavy protruding from the wall. An end table? No it was far too heavy for that and metal. Sliding your hand down the side of the object you found it was long and rectangular with drawers. Ah so a filing cabinet or a safe. Interesting. Skirting around the object you hugged the wall as closely as possible hoping you were near the rear of the room and at least halfway around. But as your foot came in contact with a metal can sending it rolling across the floor you felt your body tense as the deep growling came from mere inches from your face.

Glenn's POV

The sun had lowered far beyond the forest and the lights of the town began to light. From Glenn's place upon the tower he could see the approaching headlights of Aaron and Daryl returning from their run . A smile graced his lips as he sat up slinging his rifle over his shoulder. Should make [Y/N] happy to see him home safe. "Glenn!" Maggie called up the wooden latter as he stood. Looking down Glenn smiled down at his wife. Everyday was little brighter when he saw her beautiful face. "Hey Mags. Where's [your nickname]? She run off to be with lover boy already?" Glenn asked a smirk gracing his features as he climbed down the creaky latter. "No... I was just about to ask you if you'd seen her..." Maggie muttered worriedly. Glenn cocked a brow hopping the last step of the latter. It wasn't like you to skip work ever. "Why? Something wrong?" Glenn asked moving the hat on his head to wipe away the sweat that was building underneath. "Dr. Anderson came by earlier..." She drawled rubbing her arms and looking around nervously. Glenn frowned wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "I saw them walk off together into the town a few hours back... want to take a walk with me up to the garage? I'm sure she just got caught up helping the doctor. She just got carried away talking with Daryl." Glenn muttered, although his voice didn't hide the worry that he felt deep inside.

Walking hand in hand with Maggie to the center of town Glenn couldn't help but notice the blinds on the Anderson home flutter closed or the way the doctor had been peeking through his front door's window at the growing group just across the road from his residence. But the skilled tactician tried his damnedest to shove his negative thoughts to the back of his mind as they rounded the corner to the garage. Surely [Y/N] would be there, pleasantly distracted by her one and only. Oh how wrong he was... Daryl stood leaning against the garage wall talking to Aaron looking to the open bay door expectantly as the two walked into view. However the small defeated sigh, and deflated stance wasn't lost on Glenn when he noticed it was just the two of them. But... Glenn tried to stay positive. He had to... for his own sake if nobody else's. "Hey guys!" He called out waving jubilantly. "How was the run?" He unable to hold back a snarky laugh as Daryl flipped him off and rolled his eyes. "How'd ya think it went? We're back early." Daryl grumbled. "Awe shit I'm sorry about that, Daryl." Maggie said softly letting go of Glenn's hand to step closer to the archer. Daryl shrugged looking past them both and into the night. "Ya'll seen [Y/N] round anywhere? Normally they're the first ta greet me. She pissed at me 'r somethin'?" Daryl asked chewing the side of his thumb. Maggie shook her head. "No... we were hoping you'd seen her." Daryl shifted uncomfortably scanning Maggie's face for a moment with sheer scrutiny. "What ya mean? I was on a run all day I just got back." Maggie nodded meeting Daryl's eyes sadly. "Yeah we were hoping she'd be here with you... and that was the reason why she missed our meet up after she went with Dr. Anderson." Daryl tensed looking past Maggie to the Anderson household. "So ya think..." Daryl paused his face morphing into something dark and possessively. More so than Glenn had ever seen before from the stoic archer. "That bastard did something ta her?" Aaron shook his head, placing the socket wrench down on the work table beside himself. "Dr. Anderson? What? No way... I mean... the man has his bad days... and he's prone to drink but everyone has their vices." But Glenn didn't think he sounded convincing, even to himself. "I-I'm not sure. But she was supposed to be back by now." Maggie muttered worriedly looking back over her shoulder. "Ok... look I saw the two of them walking through the town earlier but lost them around here... I say we get Rick and Michonne and start looking for them." Maggie sighed rubbing her arms. "I hear you Glenn but I don't want to jump the gun." Daryl huffed staring at Maggie as if she grew a second head. "Jump the gun? Ya gotta be shitting." He snarled. Glaring back Maggie simply shook her head. "No of course not Daryl. She told me earlier that she wanted to get out of the walls... she's been itching to get out, cooped up in here she feels like she's going crazy. Maybe... if we're lucky she snuck out after she helped the doctor. Hopefully she just needs to cool down and took a walk. Knowing her she'll be back by morning." Maggie muttered running her hands through her hair. It seemed to Glenn that no one trusted a single hopeful word anymore. Why would they... after everything they'd been through. "Well I aint about to just sit pretty while [Y/N] is out God know's where tonight... I'm lookin' fer her. Do what ya want." Daryl growled storming towards his bike. Anxiety surged through Glenn as he watched Daryl climb his bike. "Daryl you just got back! You should at least rest before you head back out!" Glenn yelled placing a hand on the larger man's chest. "Glenn... I apricate yer concern but I've stayed up much longer and this is more important than any rest I need... Now move Glenn." Daryl murmured meeting Glenn's gaze seriously. So with a solemn nod Glenn stepped to the side letting the bike roar to life and Daryl take off into the night.

Daryl's POV

The ride to the gate was a short one, but it felt like the longest drive Daryl had ever taken in his life thus far. Not even the last ride he and Merle took together to the safety of the Quarry felt so long as this. At least then he felt safe. Secure with a partner by his side, family. No. Now was different. Now he was in an unfamiliar hostile environment that threatened not only his very existence, but the very love of his life as well. He felt so alone and exposed. Not even the familiar sight of Rick and Michonne standing by the gate speaking to Rochelle standing guard could ease his anxiety. As Daryl pulled up to the gate's entrance, his best friend's face fell his dark eyes scanning the archer sitting atop the bike. "Leaving so soon Daryl? Ya just got back." Michonne called out over the roar of the bike. Daryl shook his head glaring straight ahead. There were no time for pleasantries tonight. "Open the gate. I gotta get outta here." He grumbled to Rochelle ignoring her furrowed brow. "Look Daryl you should rest even if-" Rick tried to reason, reaching for the key of the motorcycle to turn it off and talk at a normal level. With a swift motion, Daryl caught the deputy's wrist glaring daggers into the man. "I aint got time fer that Rick." Daryl bit out shoving Rick away. "[Y/N's] missin'. I'm gonna head out an see if I can find her." Daryl huffed gripping his bike tightly to hide the way his hands shook with anger and anxiety. The archer watched a the ease wash from Rick's face, a stern and intense concentration falling into it's place. It was a look Daryl had seen before. One Rick held when he lost Lori. "Missing? What do you mean missing?" Rick uttered the peremptory question. Daryl growled not shaken by his best friend. "Ask Maggie. I aint got time to chat." Daryl muttered, revving the engine of his bike as if to make his point clear, gesturing to Rochelle to open the gate for him. "Daryl... [Y/N] didn't come through this gate. I would have seen her if she did." Rochelle tried to reason as the archer walked his bike closer to her. "You know as well as I do that there are areas on this wall that can be climbed over. I've seen you and Abraham using the same makeshift latter [Y/N] and I do to get out of the city for a walk when we don't want to be pestered. Now shut up and open the damned gate before I do it myself." Daryl growled not missing the tiny nod Rick gave Rochelle. "Ok... but I don't like it. But, you can go. Just be back by morning... if you can't find her by then, we'll spread out. All of us. Keep your radio on. Hopefully she just got lost in town again and will stumble home sometime late tonight. I'll stay up and radio you if she turns up." Rick called over the engine of the bike. Daryl nodded feeling slightly reassured knowing that Rick was going to do whatever needed to be done to find you. With a defeated sigh the petite woman unlatched the lock to the gate, pulling them open with a metallic screech. With a flick of his finger, Daryl turned his head light on and sped into the night praying to catch sight of you somewhere deep within the woods around Alexandria.

Glenn's POV

Sleep did not come easy that night for Glenn. Worry seeped into this very bones and leaked into his dreams morphing them into venomous night terrors that twisted his body and shook him to his very core. Images of your body ripped to shreds like one of the thousands of corpses he'd seen before flashed before his eyes. A long stretch of road with you tied gagged and bound at the end. The road stretching ever longer the harder he ran to get to you. His heart pounding in his chest. It was his fault. You were his best friend. Had been since before the outbreak. You were his responsibility. You and Maggie. He should have kept a better eye on you. Especially when you went off with Dr. Anderson. Glenn woke up to early morning sun shimmering off the cold sweat that covered his body. Maggie slept restlessly beside him, her moaning and whining accompanied by subtly jerks were indication enough that she was having yet another nightmare. They seemed never ending nowadays. Sitting up slowly as to not disturb what little sleep his wife was getting, Glenn snuck out of bed, pulling on a clean pair of jeans and a clean shirt before slipping downstairs. With any hope, you had slipped back home in the middle of the night with hardly any notice to any of them. It wouldn't be the first time you had slipped away... but as he stepped into the empty kitchen to put a pot of coffee on and crept quietly into the living room to peer over the couch to see who preoccupied it, either Daryl, [Y/N] or both. He was almost astonished to find Rick laying on the plush cushions, his attention turned to the door and a sleeping Judith pulled tightly to his chest. A single glance from the grisled police officer told Glenn he was awake and alert. Yet the dark bags under his eyes saying that he'd been up way too long. "Hey." Glenn whispered, leaning over the back of the couch. "Anything yet?" he asked, still hopeful, still optimistic. But Rick just shook his head, brushing the hair back out of Judith's face earning a deep contented sigh from his daughter as she slept. "Not yet." He murmured. Anxiety tightened Glenn's chest as he shuffled his feet. "Well... it's still early." Glenn whispered, looking to the door, hoping that in that moment both Daryl and [Y/N] would come waltzing in the door like a couple after a particularly eventful prom night. But it never happened. Instead the door stayed dreadfully closed. A less than hopeful hum came from the graying man as he shifted on the couch. "We'll see once Daryl comes back... she aint with him when he comes back we're going on high alert and searching every square inch of this place. Inside and out." Rick's voice was dark and commanding. It sent chills down Glenn's spine and before he realized what he was doing. Glenn nodded in compliance. The smell of fresh roasted coffee reminded Glenn of his first mission of the morning. "Want any?" Glenn asked standing straight. "Please!"

[Y/N] was gone... she never came back with Daryl. The look on Daryl's face when he pulled up on the motorcycle was enough to make Glenn's stomach turn. It felt like the day Beth passed all over again. Daryl was beside himself, pacing and grasping at his hair, the archer looked ready to faint. "I looked all over the ridges, Rick!" Daryl growled, pulling back and punching a sizable hole into the drywall. Blood dripped from his knuckles and soaked into the plush carpet as he paced once more. "I went the whole way out to the fuckin' shoppin' district. I cleared three shops we hadn't got to yet. I looked in the library. I searched every inch of the woods I could from the walls to about three miles out each way! I crawled in the damn sewer for Christ's sake!" Daryl was in retrospect fucking filthy. He was covered in zombie guts and dirt. And now Glenn completely understood what that third smell was that emanated from Daryl. "She's not out there I just know it... somethin' had to happen in here." Daryl muttered only stopping making his track in the carpet when Carol came back with a wet wash cloth for him to wipe his face and hands off with. "I aint doubtin' ya, Daryl." Rick tried deescalating the archer. "I just think a pass in the daylight with fresh eyes would be good... " Rick started ignoring the resentful glare he received in response. "Ya think I woulda missed her? I was calling out fer her! She would have heard me!" Daryl hissed, taking a challenging step towards Rick. But Glenn knew more than anyone what Rick was insinuating... that there was a chance you couldn't have answered. Be it because you were in danger... or dead. Rick stayed silent staring Daryl down trying desperately to get this point across to him without actually being the one to say it. "I just think we need to send a fresh new team out... You need to shower... eat something... then you can join Glenn in the city looking for her." Rick muttered definitively. With a small nod Glenn tried to pull a confident nod. "Yeah! I'll head out right away ok... so don't worry." Glenn muttered stepping as close as his nose would allow to the archer. Daryl rolled his eyes but nodded heading up the stairs to take a shower. Rick watched him carefully before turning to Glenn and Maggie. "Listen... I'll need everyone on this. Maggie I need you to talk to Deanna and explain that some of our people will be searching for one of our own outside of the walls... don't go into details yet. We don't want Dr. Dickface catching wind that we're onto him. I also don't want you to tell her we'll be searchin' in the walls too. If anyone has a chore, have them search while they work to be less conspicuous. The rest of us need to be as normal as possible while we look. Carol. You need to ask about locations in the walls that anyone would know of that is secret. Or that is kept off limits for any reason." Maggie and Carol nodded mentally noting Rick's instruction. "Ok, lets fucking find [Y/N]."

Your POV

Sliding around the wall you tried like hell to keep the growling, flesh-eating demon as far away from yourself as you possibly could. Unfortunately for you a pipe pultruding from the wall caught your shirt and caught you off guard. The small ripping sound from your shirt caught the monster's attention and the growling mutilated corpse surged towards you just as you lost your balance. Holding both arms out straight you screamed as the weight of another human pinned you back against the wall. A sharp pain shot through your nondominant hand and suddenly as a slippery and slimy appendage slid past your fingers you realized that the zombie had your hand in it's mouth. Adrenaline surged through you like a drug as the poison of the bite seeped into your blood. Using every ounce of strength you had in you, you pushed back off the wall, forcing the walker to stumble back. Gripping tight to his open jaw you grabbed the zombies skull and slammed it into the nearest thing you could find. The sharp corner of the filing cabinet. Over and over again you bashed the walker's skull into the sharp metal corner until the grunting and gurgling of the monster could no longer be heard. With a dull thud you released the beast and stood shaking, trying desperately to catch your breath as the stinging in your hand was becoming harder and harder to ignore. Reaching above you, you searched for a light source for the first time in only god knew how long. Just when you were certain you would die in the dark, doomed to turn into the very thing that you just slayed, you found a long thin string hanging from a single bulb in the ceiling. Giving the string a quick yank you could have cried when the light clicked to life. A breathy jubilant laugh escaping your lips as you shielded your eyes from the near blinding light that burned your retinas. But the faint dripping of fresh blood reminded you that time was not on your side. Your hand was a mangled mess. The bite forming deep in the meat of your palm you knew the entire hand needed to be amputated and fast. Ripping a thick strip of your shirt from the bottom you tied it off high on your armpit pulling it as tight as you could. Searching the ground you were happy to find your wrench placing it in your makeshift tourniquet you twisted it until the blood stopped and tied it off.

You didn't know how much time had passed since you had been bitten but your entire arm was starting to turn a deep unappealing color and your head was beginning to spin. You had emptied your stomach into the corner of the room several times after the effects of the adrenaline had worn off. You knew one of two things were going to happen... you were either going to die here, trapped in a basement of a house no one would ever find. Or Daryl would find you... he always did... and he would have to kill you. Sweat gathered on your forehead and your stomach flipped. You had no idea if you tied the tourniquet tight enough to keep the infection from spreading... even so, you could simply be dying from sepsis. That was an old world disease wasn't it? God you couldn't even remember. Sitting up against the door you really took in the room for the first time since you got there. The filing cabinet was covered in blood and viscera. But it looked expensive. Like one of those fire safe ones that promised to keep your documents safe even in a whatever class fire. You wondered vaguely what it was doing there before deciding that you didn't have the energy to search through it. The only other things you could see were the pipe that got you into this mess that seemingly went nowhere and were the home of a lonely pair of handcuffs hanging from them, rusted and bloody. Cocking a brow you turned to the zombie laying against the wall on the other side of the filing cabinet. Sure enough the flesh on the walker's one wrist was bloodied and broken. Looked like you weren't the only one shoved in this hell hole to die... lovely. Above the pipe was a vent. Presumably for fresh air to filter in from somewhere within the house you sighed and laid your head back against the wood. Your throat was sore from screaming. But what the hell. Maybe eventually someone would hear you.

Leaning your tired body against the concrete wall directly below the vent you screamed with all your might. Your throat ached and you couldn't help the aching cough that came once your voice started to fail you. For the longest time you received nothing but silence in return. Once in a while the scurrying of mice over what you could only assume were the radiators and vent covers of the empty house echoed through the pipes of the vent sending a jolt of hopeful optimism through you that quickly died out with every pleading cry for help. After a while you gave up. Sliding down the wall you leaned your body against the cold concrete, resigning yourself to death, when finally you heard it. "Hey!" The voice echoed loud and clear through the grate of the vent so loudly that you could had sworn the man screaming was in the same room as you. Listening closely you stood once more, praying that you hadn't just hallucinated the voice or dreamed it into reality as you had seen Rick do a thousand times with his lost loved ones. "[Y/N]! Are you in here?!" Glenn cried out loud and clear, and you could have just just kissed the man had you both not already been sworn to other people. "Glenn!" You screamed, banging the vent as hard as you could to catch his attention. "Glenn can you hear me?!" You nearly begged, clutching a pipe for dear life as you heard footsteps. "[Y/N]! I hear you! Where are you?" Glenn screamed the sounds of footsteps became more frantic. Sounding nearer then farther as he presumably searched room to room for you in the house above you. "I-I'm in the basement Glenn!" You screamed, tears falling from your cheeks easily as you sobbed. "Listen! It's not safe here! There are walkers here!" You heard Glenn's footsteps slow as he listened. "Walkers?" He asked tensely. "Yes! I killed the one that was in the room with me... b-but Glenn-" A loud thud cut you off and you were sure something horrible had happened before Glenn cut you off. "Don't say it... I'm coming to get you... so just... just stay put I'll get you out." Glenn growled, his footsteps becoming more and more distant until they and his voice could no longer be heard. "Wait! Wait!" You cried desperately, tears streaming and washing the dirt and blood from your face in thick streaks. "Glenn! I need you to tell Daryl I love him!" You screamed as loudly as you could, pacing the small space, you suddenly realized just how tiny it really was. Never before had it felt so claustrophobic. Never before had it felt so much like a prison until now. Until you felt so completely isolated. Walking to the thick wooden door you slammed your good hand against it kicking and screaming with all your might praying that maybe it would give way just enough to let you pry your way out and get to Glenn.

"[Y/N]!" His voice froze you in place and melted your heart into pieces breaking you down into heart wrenching sobs that hurt your chest and burned your lungs. Daryl was somewhere outside of the door. You could hear him clear as day. But a greedy part of you never wanted him to find you... The selfish part that knew deep down that Daryl would always want to finish things himself... the one that also knew he could never finish this by himself if he needed too. He just couldn't but he wouldn't allow anyone else to do it and it could endanger everyone... Bu that was why you loved him. He loved and felt so purely. You'd have it no other way. "Daryl!" You sobbed out, hearing a distant banging turn into wood clattering onto concrete you knew that someone had broken down the basement door. And if you had to guess it was Rick or Daryl. "{Y/N]! Darlin' where are ya?" Daryl cried out frantic worry in his voice as, his footsteps paced the concrete just outside the door where you were kept. "There! There's another door." Rick growled, sounding manic and breathless. So it was him who bashed down the last door... "[Y/N] if your in there back away from the door! Rick's gonna break it down!" Glenn cried out making you scramble back from the door in time to see the blade of an axe pierce through the wood. It took six swings for rick to make a sizable enough hole for both he and Daryl to fit through. You noted that it would have only taken three if it were just Glenn and Michonne... but who was counting... Holding your wounded arm as closely to your body as you could you stood shaking, covered in blood and sweat, and shaking like a leaf. Daryl stepped through first, Rick and Glenn following close behind then Michonne. The four stooges... would have been funny under different circumstances. Daryl eyed your injured body a deep frown forming on his face as he stepped closer to you. "Sunshine..." He started, holding out a hand to touch you, but as if on instinct to protect the man you jolted away as if your simple touch would burn him. Shaking your head you let the tears fall, words unable to form as thick sobs got stuck in your throat. "Wha'-" Daryl tried again, desperate to avoid the obvious. Maybe you just cut yourself... maybe it was crushed... hell maybe there was a curse put on you and he could just... fix it! But everyone else knew better. Glenn looked devastated shaking his head and backing away into the extended storage of the basement. Michonne was already unsheathing her sword, looking to Rick for guidance. Rick... He stood stock still, a grim firm look on his face. You could tell he didn't dare say a word until Daryl gave the order to do something... anything... but you... you had to make him understand first. "Baby. I love you more than anything." You started sadly meeting Daryl's eyes. But the archer wasn't just going to take that. No... it couldn't go down like that... not after everything. Not after all this! "So... it's a bite then..." Daryl tried to sound calm, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. You could only nod. "Daryl-" You tried to reason with him... tried to explain that he and Glenn should just wait outside. You'd meet him later... that one day he'd wake up with you by his side. But the brunette archer wasn't about to take it laying down. "We'll cut it off." Daryl bit out between gritted teeth turning to Michonne who only looked shocked then sad. "Daryl... fevers set in... you know we need to-" She tried to reason, but Daryl simply shook his head grunting and glaring at the floor like a child throwing a tantrum. "If you don't do it I will." He growled, reaching for the knife he carried with him everywhere, and suddenly fresh adrenaline pumped through your blood making you shake and shiver in both anticipation and fear. Rick sighed shifting his weight. "We do this... and she turns... you're gonna have to be the one who-" Rick muttered, once again cut off by Daryl's grunt and shake of the head. "Won't happen I won't let it." Daryl growled turning to you assuredly.

Michonne tried like hell to make it quick. You'd thought that after so many heads she'd severed that the blade on her katana was as sharp as they made them. It was sharp but despite all of her best efforts, your screaming begging and crying she could not make it go through bone. So despite every ounce of begging you tried. Every time you begged Daryl to just kill you as he held you tight to keep you from moving. It was Rick's axe that freed you from your diseased arm. Your vision blurred, your voice slurred, and everything sounded like you were resting at the bottom of the ocean as you met Daryl's worried eye, the last thing you saw before everything went black.

One Week Later ~~~ Daryl's POV

All the walkers that slipped through the gates had been slaughtered by Rick and the town meeting to decide Rick's fate for his earlier spat with the Dr. had ended with both the town's leader Reg, slayed by the Dr. himself and Dr. Anderson executed by Rick as ordered by Deanna... It certainly felt as if all hell was breaking loose on Alexandria. At the town meeting Rick unloaded on the residents of the town. Telling them all about the torture room the Dr. had set up and how if Alexandria ever truly came under attack the residents would never be prepared for a fight. Rick set up trainings for the residents. A new doctor was put into place, her Dr. Denise. Her first patient, treating the infection that was setting into place in the wound of the unconscious woman that had laid in the medical office for over a week now. Daryl could tell Denise was extremely underqualified for the position. Books upon books of medical texts lain in high stacks around her as she dug for the best treatment melody to give you that wouldn't trip an accidental allergic reaction but also treat the wound, fever, and kill the infection. Daryl watched the timid doctor carefully, placing you on a heavy dose of IV steroids and an even heavier dose of IV antibiotics. "Are you just going to sit there all day..." Denise asked once she had the courage to ask. Daryl shrugged from his seat at the corner of the room. He hadn't planned on leaving yet. As a matter of fact he hardly left your side. "Well as long as your here you can keep yourself busy." Denise huffed, tossing a wet, soapy rag to the very confused archer. "It's time to redress her bandages and give her a sponge bath... figure if you're here you might as well help me bathe her."

There was nothing more intimate than bathing with your partner. Lathering each other's bodies up. feeling the way the warm suds slipped through your fingers as you ran your hands across their most intimate parts. But this... this was different on an entirely new plane of weird. Daryl felt almost like a massive pervert, touching you like this while you slept. But after a few less than gentle reassurances from Denise reminding him that it was crucial to get every bit of you body, he complied, happy to do the work himself, refusing to let another human being get this up close with you in his life. But just as soon as he finished and was certain that the bandages coming off today were actually looking better than they did the day before, he bolted for the door. Refusing to be wrapped in another medical tasks. "Should I leave the office unlocked for you tonight again?" Denise asked making Daryl turn slightly. He wanted to punch the glass out of the stupid door in frustration. He wanted to yell "I'll be back by dinner! She'll be awake and hungry by then." But he simply looked to the floor and nodded feeling a wave of shame and embarrassment wash over him as she sighed. "Ok... I'll set up a pillow and some blankets for you on the couch."

The walk to Aaron's garage was a short one but it was easy to pass up when Daryl's mind felt heavy and weighed down. "Daryl!" The archer heard his friend call out expectantly. Turning on his heel Daryl hummed darting into the garage and finding his seat on the upturned bucket next to his bike. "Hey... you looked lost in though... is everything ok?" Aaron asked tinkering with a wrench and socket joint. "'M fine..." Daryl growled reaching down between his knees to grab a screwdriver. Aaron hummed in return. A calm silence that both knew all too well. Daryl had more so vented to his friend about the entire situation days ago when Rick had to drag him out of the medical bay to let Carol and the Doctor stitch her wound. "Oh! Hey..." Aaron muttered absentmindedly reaching behind himself to pull a large project forward that was covered with a sheet. Pulling the sheet away, a robotic hand sat proudly on a pedestal hooked to various wires and gadgets. Daryl stood slowly, a look of confusion crossing his face as he stepped closer to the counter. "Wha's that?" Daryl asked glancing at Aaron. "Oh I used to work in robotics for a time... I thought it was cool and this was my version of the prosthetic my uncle should have had a chance to have." Aaron muttered taping the wires to the skin of his arm. Squeezing his hand, Daryl watched in amazement as the robotic hand followed and matched Aaron's every movement exactly. "It's all electricity based. The movement and power of the prosthetic comes from the natural electricity found in the body. I could fashion a quick joint to go along with this, just a piston that would lift the arm up and down on swivel for the elbow if you'd think [Y/N] would be interested..." Aaron muttered meeting Daryl's gaze tentatively. The archer couldn't help but smile. "We'll see what she says... but I'm sure she'll love it."

As day turned to night and Daryl bid farewell to Aaron, his belly full after a large supper at his friend's and Eric's house. Daryl strolled the darkened streets of Alexandria wondering, if he'd ever get to do this again with you. Walking into the medical office he was grateful to find the front door unlocked and a blanket and pillow setting out just for him just as promised. But something was off... something was different. Normally when he came to check on you the bed was lying flat for the night, the monitors turned on so whoever came to check you at night could check your heart beat and the lights were off. None of those things happening right now. Your heart monitor had been shut off creating an eerie quiet in the building. Your bed was sitting upright but your body was slumped over the side of the bed. Soft groaning and whining came from you and an intense panic fell over Daryl as he instantly grasped the end of the bed to steady himself. He knew Rick told him... But he hadn't truly believed he'd had too... "Fucking God... Fuck." Your voice, albeit extremely annoyed voice, threw Daryl for a loop. You were alive... More importantly you were a-fucking-wake! Scrambling to your side, Daryl hoisted you back into bed not able to contain the face splitting smile that crossed his features. "Woah there... what are ya doin' Sunshine?" Sunshine... god he'd never thought he'd ever say that word again. "Daryl!" You cried wrapping your arm around your boyfriend. "Thank God you came. I dropped the remote to the bed and it tried to make me into a sandwich!" Daryl couldn't stop the laugh that burst from his chest. kneeling down slowly he picked up the remote, handing it to his love before enveloping her as carefully as he physically could. His laughter slowly turning into heartfelt sobs as you stroked your fingers through his hair. "I should have been here." He whined. "It's ok baby..." You whispered, kissing his crown then his lips tenderly, sweetly. "You're here now. That's all that matters."

[bambieyedoll]

⊹ ⋆ ꒰ఎﾟMOODBOARD ໒꒱ ⋆ﾟ⊹

rick grimes x farmer’s daughter!reader

“gotta be quiet for me, sugar” he whispered in your ear. you could feel his rough hands going up and down your legs making you shiver and sigh in delight. your eyes were closed, your back against the wall as you held onto his shoulders for support. “that’s it, baby” your soft legs wrapped around his waist, letting him in again.

[olive3oil]

Until I can’t breathe anymore, oh wait.. we would never stop😇

[banquetwriter]

no thoughts only rick grimes being an absolutely filthy needy lover

(might turn this into a full length fic if yall enjoy 🤓)

his rough hands ABSOLUTELY gripping your fucking jaw, his tongue roughly exploring your mouth. like he hasn’t had a meal in his whole life.

his strong rough hand gripping the soft flesh of your thighs/ass/ waist as he eats you out like a starving man. it isn’t enough to have you pinned down on the shitty mattress in Alexandria.

he lifts your body closer to him, teeth grazing your clit. making your eyes go covered in stars. using his strong body to flip you around no MATTER what size your body is. he will flip you around and land dominate smacks on your ass.

absolutely marking you so everyone knows who the fuck you belong to. he can’t deny the way he loves sneaking around with you, hand on your mouth as he rams his cock into your greedy cunt

[oddnry-silent]

Hey! Can I request the main group (especially Daryl and Rick) x male reader who has a prosthetic leg? Like they find him during a run, and maybe he even saves one of them from getting bit, and at first they act like he sacrificed himself for them, but then it turns out, the walker bit his prosthetic leg so there's no issue

☆: I don't think I can make this long like my oneshots so I'll make this short okayyy? andd for the supply runs, not all of the group can join so I'll pick the ones who goes onto runs always if that's okay? thank u lovely anon!

• Saved.

>Y/N saved Daryl from walkers but they thought he got bit but it was just his prosthetic leg.

Taken in Alexandria era

TW! language, blood, guns, knife

normal fic

Color text: Y/N Rick Daryl Carl Rosita

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Rick decided to make a supply run with Daryl, Carl and Rosita in a supermarket him and Daryl found lately.

They planned and discussed what to do when they get inside, the car was parked infront of the entrance so that incase of an emergency, it's easy to leave.

"Carl will stay beside me, you two can roam around but make sure you can see each other. Ill whistle if I saw something. Come to me first if you see something interesting, scream for help if needed. Okay?" The three nodded as they went infront of the entrance.

Rick knocked the door and waited for minutes, revealing two walkers banging at the door. Rick signaled Rosita to open the door and him and Daryl will kill it.

Rick put down his hand as Rosita opened the door, a slice and an arrow set off the crossbow was heard. Rick got inside first, he looked around making sure there's no walkers. He signaled the three as they all came inside.

As planned, Daryl and Rosita set off to two different directions and Rick and Carl head straight. The aisles looked untouched, some are missing but most are still present.

Rick whistled once as the two went to the middle, "The shelves looked untouched, but look around for walkers before we clear these. We hit the jackpot. Daryl, close the entrance and the rest search for walkers same for you after." They all nodded as they went to different aisles.

Daryl lowered his crossbow and went to the entrance, holding his knife for an attack. He looked around and closed the door with an wood nearby.

But before he put it to the handles, walkers came to the door causing the door to barge open. An walker stumbled Daryl down, and he struggled to get his knife.

Another walker appeared beside him in below one of the shelves, it's hand reaching his face.

But then, someone pulled away the walkers outside. A man killed the one above Daryl earlier, and the other one crawling beside him.

That's not it, three walkers stumbled down the man, the other one crawling to his feet.

But before Daryl stood up, an walker appeared again beside him. It grabbed Daryl's hand but he can access his knife and easily stab its head.

Daryl stood up, seeing the walker bit up the man's leg when he shot the two. Daryl's eyes widened as he rushed to the walker as he grabbed the walker and stabbed its head.

The man sighed peacefully as Daryl looked at his leg, an bite mark with blood.

The others came outside as they heard the gunshots, The three dropped their bags and rushed to the man as Daryl dropped the walker he was holding.

"Hey, are you okay??" "He got bit!!" "No wai-" "Carl, start up the engine, we need to get this man to the infirmary. Rosita, stay here and pack the things inside there. And Daryl, come with us."

"NO WAIT!! GEEZ!!" The man shouted as Carl stopped walking, Rosita stopped picking up the bags from the floor, Rick and Daryl stood there and the man hold his hands up.

"It wasn't my blood!" The four went confused as they give their own confused looks on their faces. The man sighed as he pull up his right pants, revealing a prosthetic leg.

"It's a fucking robot leg, okay?? And the blood is from the walker, it ate something before it showed up!" The man said, still his hands up.

Daryl looked at the walker's mouth he dropped earlier, seeing blood everywhere and an animal flesh pieces. "Yeah it ate somethin' before.." The three let out a heavy sigh as Rick looked at the man.

"Hey we're sorry, we thought you got bit." Rick said, holding out a hand as the man accepted it.

"Do you have a camp?" The man brushed off the dirt on his pants as he looked at Carl, "Nah, just temporary spots. But now, I'm finding another."

"Yer' can come with us.." Daryl said as Rick nodded, "Really.? Is your camp big?" The man's eyes widened with joy, "It's a community, the whole camp was a village before and we got space." Rick said as the man let out an "ooohh".

"But first, what's your name?" Rick asked, "Y/N L/N, sir." The man whose name is Y/N replied as Rick nodded.

"How many walkers have you killed?" The sheriff asked, "30.."

"How many people have you killed?" Daryl stepped forward, "3."

"Why?" "Killed them before they turn." Rick and Daryl nodded.

"Rick Grimes, Daryl, My son Carl, and Rosita. Since your part of the group, want to help us here?" Rick pointed the group and asked as Y/N nodded happily as they all got inside at the store again and pack the supplies.

▪︎

"Hey man.." Daryl walked into a empty aisle with Y/N looking at the shelf as Daryl approach him, making Y/N look at him and putting the canned good in the bag that he was holding.

"Yeah? Sup?" Y/N continued looking at the gods and put it into the bag. "Thank you for saving me back there.. appreciate it." Daryl lowered his voice as Y/N tapped his shoulders.

"No problem, Dar." Y/N smiled as Daryl blushed a little by the nickname as he help Y/N packing the supplies.

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[cainache]

a horse named cold air ♱ rick grimes (4x16)

The quiet of the night brings Judith to your mind. You know better than to think about her anymore, Rick has told you to stop, ever since you’d left the prison. Bruised and aching with a ruined Carl and a near deathbed Rick.

Thinking of little Jude just brings on a sadness you can’t quite recover from. He believes she’s gone, you’re not quite sure you believe that.

Tonight had brought you guys Daryl. He was still alive, more of them had to be. Carol? Maggie? Glenn? Your family, they had to be alive, somewhere. It’s what you guys were made for: staying alive.

Tonight had been another show of that.

The Claimers had been brutal. They’d been disgusting, but they brought Daryl back.

There’s an orange glow coating your face as the small fire crackles before you. Wood burns. It leaves a smell in the warm-cold air. Your eyes are fixated on the olden car, Michonne is tucked inside the vehicle with Carl, his head tucked over her lap. Her gentle fingers at his growing hair. Daryl stays against the truck, keeping watch for the time being. Rick is up to be in that spot soon. You soon to enter the car to switch with Michonne. To check on the young boy you care deeply for, once more.

Your mind leaves Judith, only to land on the next Grimes’ child. It’s a cycle. A quiet one you don’t tell Rick about. You don’t ever tell him how much you ache for his children.

Carl, who has been tainted by awful hands only a short hour ago.

You had tried to reach him when it was all happening, the younger boy crying against the ground and it made you sick. You tried and it resulted with you being hit roughly in the jaw by a heavy fist of the grimy man that had been holding you back. The ground had pricked your palms as you fell. Rick had truly lost it then. A man’s throat being ripped. Dead men littering the floor like forgotten wrappers of candy. You hadn’t seen it all. You’d been quick to urge to Carl, the boy sinking into your arms as he watched his father. You hid your face in his sweat ridden hair. You’d been whispering, for Carl, but for yourself too. Trying to ground it all. You’re not sure how you would’ve felt after if you had seen what had happen to the foul men.

“Your lip alright?” His voice frightens you from the quiet. Your head turns rather quickly towards him, he sits at your right side. Rick, he’s covered in blood, a distance look in his eyes. Tonight had been another shock for him. Limits he didn’t know he’d have to cross for his family. You don’t blame him. No one does.

You nod, short, softly. Rick sees how your jaw isn’t tight, he figured it would’ve been. He’ll see a bruise forming when the light of the next day hits your skin and he’ll know he’ll be angry all over again.

“It’s just a little blood, a little swelling. I’m okay,” you whisper. He doesn’t quite believe you.

A hand slowly leaves his knee and it encases one of yours on your thigh. His touch brings a chill to your skin. Your pointer finger hooks with his thumb. “I’m okay, Rick..” You whisper again. Not sure if it’s for you or him, but it’s been said. “I know,” he mumbles. It sounds all too soft for the way he looks right now.

Your sullen eyes land on a water bottle by Michonne’s pack. All your packs line up together.

Your eyes and Daryl’s seem to land on it at the same time. He gives you a short nod, like he’s read your mind. You smile, small, at him. He quietly kicks off the car and hands you his rag from his back pocket. You lean away from Rick’s grasp for it, mumbling a thank you to the long haired man with striking blue eyes, even in the dark of the night. He nods before heading back to watch.

Rick hadn’t seem to notice the encounter. He’s far away, right now. You don’t pry.

You just reach for the water and damp the rag softly, trying not to use so much.

You turn back to the man next to you, and his skin looks awfully beautiful under the orange hue of the fire and the mix of the red of blood. “Rick,” you call gently.

His gaze switches to you, in a heartbeat. “Everything’s okay,” you manage to say. He nods, his jaw loosening from its tense hold at your soft voice. It’s honey in his ears, it calms an ache in his chest. “I know, sweetheart.”

You smile, small, and look down at the rag. “Can I?” He doesn’t say anything, just juts his chin out a little for you.

You gently take ahold of his face. His beard rough against the meat of your palm. His skin older than yours, but still adored by you. You clean gently at his red skin, and with time the red fades. His eyes watch you focus, and his hands gently encases your calves. He just needs to hold something of you.

You send him a small smile. The red is gone, for the most part. “You’re a good man, Rick.”

His brows soften and he opens his legs for you to slide between them. You do.

Your head rests on his chest as he drapes an arm around you. His chin rests on the crown of you head. “Thank you, sweetheart.” He presses a soft kiss to your crown.

And despite his reminding words, you think of Judith in the cold that’s masked by a fire.

You know she’s out there. They’re all out there. You’ll find them soon. You know it, Rick will soon too.

[zombiewhor3]

IMMUNE

female reader x season 2 twd group

WARNINGS: shane, mentions of walker bite, gorey descriptions, gorey and violent scenes, mature language.

A/N: this is one of the worst things i've ever written but i really wanted to use this idea before i forgot about it so oh well!

-

dropping some more wood into the fire she could feel the eyes lingering on her she had been with them for a few months and yet they still watched her like a hawk.

they stalked her every move, it was like every breath she took was being analyzed by the group. she placed a seat on a stump in front of the fire using it to heat her hands and with a soft sigh she looked at the infamous sheriff who was buttoning up his shirt.

his eyes focused on her hoping that she wouldn't plot a move on them, she had been off. Something about the way she never spoke, the only word they had gotten out of her was a simple whisper to alert them of a walker, after that was pure silence.

he noticed the way she hadn't feared the walkers, not even a glimmer of fear in her eye struck when they ran into a giant hoarde.

"y/n, gather your stuff before we head to the well" rick spoke gently, she could see him gesture her out of the corner of her eye.

standing up and gathering a pair of pants and shirt from her tent she followed the group to the well, lifting the bucket and using a washboard that Maggie gifted them to scrub her clothes.

she stayed farther away from the group, right on the small hill where Daryl was perched using his knife to cut up an apple. "i don't i've ever seen ya take that jacket off" he muttered before popping a piece of the fresh fruit in his mouth.

continuing to scrub her clothes and looking down at the dirt that came off of them she spoke, "it was a gift" he chuckled a little before cutting off another piece of the apple and passing her the last piece.

placing it into her mouth she chewed as she hung up her clothes to dry against the tree, resting the washboard against its trunk before sitting back down.

"one thing about this group is we don't trust easy, don't take it personal kiddo" flipping the blade away and tossing the core he could feel her eyes digging into him.

"yeah well i don't trust some of em either" her tone was bitter,

"and ya think i do?" he replied taking the crossbow off of his shoulder and resting it down on the ground.

"they watch my every move, they trust Maggie more than me and i've known them longer" she stood up and brushed off her pants,

he could see that there were holes all throughout the back, the denim torn in certain places all covered in dirt and practically begging for it to be cleaned.

"why don't ya wash the jacket? we still have water left"

she shook her head no at him before grabbing the washboard and heading back to the main camp area. Why did it matter so much that she didn't want to take her damn jacket off?

-

dinner was always filled with laughter, pots being passed around, stories were told around the camp fire. she usually sat in her tent to eat alone or she sat away from the groups eyes.

now sitting on a stump beside Daryl with a plate in her hand she hadn't felt as isolated, she hadn't felt as alone. Even if she didn't trust a few of the men sitting across from her.

she took a beer that rick offered her, twisting off the cap she took a sip as she rolled up her sleeves to try and escape some of the heat the fire was giving off.

she listened to the stories they told, all about their jobs, families and their lives before the apocalypse, clearing her throat she spoke up,

"before this whole dead virus thing came about i used to be majoring in chemical science so i guess that went out the window" she could hear the group around her laugh and Glenn began to pipe up his own story.

"i was a pizza driver and i was majoring in economics, and now since there's no money involved with whats left of the world id say it was not handy" she gave off a soft smile,

everyone seemed to loosen up now, except for Shane. Though he hadn't trusted anybody, he didn't even trust Daryl even after he saved his life on multiple occasions.

his dark eyes were burning into her skin, burning into the rolled up sleeve but to busy drinking her beer and continuing her conversation she hadn't even noticed he stood up from his seat.

pulling her up from her seat he stripped her off the denim jacket while holding her forearm into the air causing a mutter of confusion amongst the group.

a scar was imprinted into her skin, a part of her flesh was missing where skin had grown back over it already leaving it a shade of pink and red going against her natural skin tone. "shane get the hell off me" she bittered trying to swing away from his grasp.

everyone else had gotten up to look at her arm, she swallowed harshly feeling his grip tighten while she felt like everyone was poking and prodding at her with their beady eyes.

"it's a dog bite, it happened when i was a teenager now will you let the hell go of me" she rattled against his hand but still with his tight grasp it was almost no use to push against him.

"these are human teeth, not even a human bite scar would be this color, you've been bit" she could hear people gasp as he came to his shitty but true conclusion, she had been bit but she wasn't like the others, she didn't turn.

looking over to Daryl she let out a plea, "it's not what it looks like i promise you i can explain all of this" Daryl could feel his hand on Shane's shoulder now as he practically pried his grasp from her.

sitting on the opposite side away from everybody shane's gun remained pointed at her chest, ready to pull the trigger whenever she turned into the monster that bit her.

"this mark is two years old, i got it at the beginning i was just a dumb teenager and i made a stupid decision" she sighed while finally slipping off her denim jacket and resting it beside her.

"no way you would've turned by now" someone muttered from the group watching her eyes flick up at them, "don't you get it, i can't turn something about this virus doesn't affect me".

-

looking at the straggling walker before them she repeated back Shane's words with an utter disgust,

"i'm sorry you want me to let another walker bite me to prove i'm really immune? you're god damn crazy you know that"

pulling out her knife she braced her self for the pain of something that was going to tear through more flesh on her arm, reaching her arm out she let out a piercing scream as it bit down on her flesh,

its teeth sinking into her enough to pull a little chunk of her arm out, as tears flooded her eyes she used her other arm to take the walker out as she ripped away from the grasp of its teeth.

he tossed a piece of cloth at her before making his way up to camp, with a subtle sob in the depth of the night she wrapped her wound and trailed just far enough behind him.

blood soaked through the cloth, dying over the cotton white to turn it into a shade of near death, finally stumbling back into camp she sat around the fire keeping her best to stay silent.

he stared at her through the flames of the fire just as strong as her loathe for him right now,

"does this prove your point now asshole?" she retorted back before wincing at the feeling her hand putting pressure down on her arm.

-

looking at the crowd in front of her she stood holding up her arm,

"day seven with this bite and i haven't turned i won't turn because i'm immune to whatever the hell this is, and i would like to go back to not being harrassed" she muttered.

everyone else in the group had left her be now, she was one less thing they had to worry about. and it made her life so much easier no more poking and prodding, she was actually able to have a conversation without Shane stalking her.

"you think they trust me now?"

she whispered over to Daryl who had a smile on his face, "sure they do, ya got bit by a walker to prove yer point who wouldn't trust ya" he replied feeling her head lean against his shoulder.

"until the next walker bite i suppose"

[twdxtrevor]

Pov: mommy and daddy at it again . . (pt2)

[twigg96]

Into the Darkness, I become Stronger

Daryl X Injured! Reader

Time frame: The Prison (Slight Cannon Divergence)

Pronouns: She/her, You, Your, [Y/N]

Warnings: Blood, Gunshot, Kidnapping, Hostage situation, swearing, POV switching, Nonsexual intimacy, Sexual Intimacy,

Summary: When you and Phoenix go out to pick Elderberries for the Prison, a man from another group attacks you and knocks you out. Dragging you to a clearing in the woods he makes his demands. He wants to know about the prison and claims he and his people don't want to hurt anyone, but will in order to survive. He claims they need weapons and in order to get them... he's taking your daughter Phoenix as collateral.

It was just supposed to be a simple foraging expedition. Nothing major so you had only brought your knife and a few buckets to carry the berries in. Nothing you've never done on your own before. Hell even before the turn you had done this. You and Hershel had noticed the Elder Berry bushes growing near a creek several days prior on your way back to the prison after a walk to clear some of the walkers that had piled against the fence. You were fairly certain you were still visible from those on watch at the prison… you never would have left by yourself if you hadn’t been sure. You most certainly would never have taken Phoenix with you if you had known what was about to happen. But now, bound and gagged you glared at the attacker who snuck up so easily on you both. Who hit you while your back was turned and slung you over his shoulder like you were a sack of potatoes. The same asshole who played and talked so easily to your too trusting four-year old daughter... You sat watching on wondering if and when the others would take notice of your absence. How long had it been now? 10 minutes? Four hours? God time felt like an eternity yet moving so fast you couldn’t comprehend it. “Why is my momma tied up and bleedin'?” Phoenix asked timidly, her voice dripping with a fear that broke through your thoughts and brought you back to reality. A bead of sweat dripped down your face mixing with the blood from your fresh wounds that stung the cut as you watched her with worried eyes. “Because…” the man muttered, pulling Phoenix’s attention back towards himself as he handed her a fully clothed Barbie with matted blonde hair. It was a toy she refused to part with after her father returned home with it several months ago. Poor Barbie somehow managed to end up naked with no hopes of getting dressed by herself or your daughter. It was always up to the adults to help her change the doll into her new more fashionable outfit Phoenix had stored in her pockets and backpack. Your captor… while patient with Phoenix, seemed to also be having fun at your expense. He was watching you intensely, grinning at the way your tears intermingled with the blood that flowed from the fresh wound at your temple. “You’re mommy doesn’t like to listen.” The man muttered standing to his full height. He was tall... taller than you had initially thought, putting to rest any ideas you had of simply taking him down from where you sat. He had a long scar covering the left side of his face that crawled down his throat and a tattoo of an anchor on his left calf. Walking around your daughter you watched him carefully as he glared hatefully into your eyes once he was hidden behind her back. “You see,” the man paused as if to think about his words, placing his hands on either one of Phoenix's shoulders before speaking again. “I really needed to know something important. But your mommy doesn’t want to talk. She tried to hurt me.” The man growled indicating to his limp and stab wound he bore in his right thigh that just missed his artery. Lucky bastard got off easy. “So…” the man muttered, pulling his pistol from his hostler he pointed the gun at the back of Phoenix’s head. “I thought a time out after a real long walk would help mommy want to talk. If not… there is always… incentive.”

The clicking of the hammer sent icy chills down your spine. Your eyes widened and it was as if time itself was at a standstill. Every dust particle that blew past your face, every leaf that tumbled in the wind, every hair that stuck to your skin, every bead of sweat that dripped from your face seemed to stop in time as you stared at the man holding the gun to your daughter's head. Phoenix was a ghostly pale color as she realized exactly what was going on. Her terrified gaze trained on you waiting for you to tell her what to do next. You could only hope that someone was nearby... that the unfamiliar area to you was only slightly off the beaten path of the normal route your husband took when out on a run and he would find you if no one else would. But the silence of the woods was deafening. Swallowing the thick lump in your throat you shook your head, letting the fat tears you were holding back fall to your thighs. "Awe come on now darlin'." God you hated the way that word fell so easily out of that bastard's mouth. "Don't cry over something that ain't happened yet. You can prevent this. Just think long and hard about how many people you got in your camp... How many people ya love there... Ya don't want them to get hurt. So when I come over to ya and remove your gag. I want ya to tell me just what all you got in your camp. How many weapons and bullets. How many people. How much food... water. And tell me the truth... Because if you lie... trust me... we'll find out about it." You nodded in compliance, the sick feeling of fearful shivers coursing through your body making you feel weak. As the man stepped towards you, the barrel of his gun remained trained on Phoenix's head. "Don't worry sweetheart. Just keep playin' with yer dolls." He muttered, softly turning his attention to you as he pulled the coarse material from your mouth. "Now talk." You wanted to scream... to fight back. To break the bonds that held you like the superhero your daughter believed you were and defeat the evil that currently held you. But you knew better. Any retaliation would result in her death. He had the advantage. So you lied. Strategically. "W-we don't have much..." You muttered, your voice gruff and cracking due to fear and thirst. "Well I want to know about what you do have not what you don't." The man growled. You nodded glancing at your daughter before continuing. "We have about eight people... and maybe a gun for each person..." You lied straight through your teeth. The prison was well fortified with weapons Rick and the others had found before the fall of Woodbury. There were lots of people now too. A whole community. Phoenix's uncle Merle. Her father, Daryl. Everyone you cared about. You weren't about to sacrifice them all when you had a chance to outwit this guy... And the man seemed to buy it. Nodding along with every word. "So only eight people and eight guns to clear out the entire prison?" He asked seriously. You shook your head no. Another lie. "No. We have just been living in one of the smaller cell blocks. It was too difficult to clear anything more. Too many walkers." The man hummed looking from you to the ground in thought as if he was considering your words carefully. "Alright... tell your people we want six of your weapons." He growled turning the barrel of his gun on you now. "We'll let you have two for self defense... living in a prison must be dangerous especially with a little one." He muttered looking back at Phoenix with a soft gaze. Stepping around you, the man pulled out a knife and cut the bonds that held your hands. Your wrists were red and raw as you held them in front of yourself, rubbing them gingerly. "Luckily for you, you won't need to worry about her tonight." The man's words cut deep and sent another wave of sick fear through you. Looking up you watched as he held a hand out to your daughter who looked frozen in place. "Come on sweetie. It's time to pack up and go. Mommy has business to attend to. She'll come get you in the morning. We get to have a sleep over."

It was instinctual. You moved to fast to your feet and stumbled, your body too weak from the blow it had taken earlier and your blood not ready to pump so fast. It made your vison falter and fade, darkening as if you were about to pass out. Pain. Pain was all you felt after the shockingly loud bang of the gunshot. Pain that radiated through your left leg and up into your core. Pain that was all consuming and powerful. You didn't even realize you were screaming until the ringing in your ears had subsided. "I really didn't want you to do that..." The man growled stepping up to where you laid, holding tightly to Phoenix's wrist as she tugged hard to get away. "But I guess we can say we're kind of even now... right?" He hissed pulling your daughter, your world out of sight, her screams echoing in your tired mind as your vison went in and out of focus until suddenly you were seeing and hearing nothing at all. Visons of your life played on repeat in your mind like flashes in a movie theater. Your first ever memory. Your favorite memory with a sibling. Your first pet. The first time you met your husband Daryl as a young teen in high school. Skipping behind the bleachers with him during prep rallies and school assemblies just to talk and share things with each other you couldn't with anyone else... which eventually evolved into sweet secretive kisses. The first time you touched each other sensually. The night he proposed under the light of the full moon near the lake you both more time at than your homes. The day you both eloped deciding that traditional marriage was too... well traditional for you both. The day you told him you were pregnant and the day you both realized how scared of the future you both were. The day you told Merle and the way your husband's brother's face lit up as he touched your tummy and felt Phoenix kick against his hand. The day you gave birth. The moment everything changed and you realized that you hadn't known real fear until the turn. Blinking awake you winced at the pain that still ebbed through your entire body. You had so much to live for. So much to fight for... You didn't know how long you were out but you refused to let yourself give up there. Crawling to your feet you stood on shaky legs and began to stumble in the direction of where you believed the road could be. The sun was falling low in the sky and you knew darkness would soon follow. You only hoped Daryl would be home when you got there.

Hours passed before you ever reached a paved road that looked vaguely familiar. But you were sure to use your knife to carve symbols on trees that you passed so that you could get back to the spot you were at when you left to make the trade the next morning. Trade... God the word made you sick and brought a vile taste to your mouth. Trade was a word for goods and services... not humans and children... The sky had just turned dark and the moon had risen in the sky by the time you reached the prison gates. The walkers that had piled up were taken care of in the beginning of the night so as you approached you simply waited for whoever was on duty to open the gates. It didn't take long for Carl to come running over. "[Y/N]!" He screamed pulling the chain with a small grunt letting you quite literally tumble into the prison grounds with a soft whine. You felt his warm hands on your shoulders then heard the boy curse for the first time. You wanted to laugh but the pain was simply overwhelming. "[Y/N] where's Phoenix?" He asked panic dripping from his voice. But you could only sob. "I- Daryl." You got out. "I need Daryl." You gasped, trying to stand as a disheveled Glenn and Maggie came sprinting from the guard tower. "Jesus what happened?!" Maggie screamed rushing to your side. Carl shook his head. "Don't know... I'm going to get Hershel and my dad." He muttered sprinting off to the prison door. "Where's Daryl? I need Daryl." You whined, doubling over on yourself and falling to your knees as you tried to walk up the steep incline to the prison. "[Y/N]! Please be careful!" Maggie cried trying to assess your wounds. "Daryl? He's inside right now, I can get him for you if you need me too." Glenn offered and with a small nod he sprinted up the hill.

Daryl's POV~~~

It was quiet inside the prison. Eerily so. Daryl couldn't get a wink of sleep without you and Phoenix by his side. So instead he focused on sharpening the points of his arrows as he sat on the mattress he shared with you and your daughter up in the loft. Merle perched himself on the top step leaning on the railing. He seemed busy sharpening his own knife but Daryl knew better. He knew Merle was keeping an eye on him. Making sure he was ok with you gone, with you missing for so long. "So ya say this place has a stocked kitchen?" Merle asked softly, adjusting the way his right foot rested against the opposite railway. Daryl hummed providing a swift nod in response. "Think that wife of yours will make us hotcakes like she used to when she gets back?" Daryl blinked looking up at Merle's shit eating grin. Shaking his head he couldn't help but chuckle. He knew Merle was joking but he could still tell Merle was worried about you. "I'm sure if you ask nicely she will." Daryl muttered, placing his arrow back in it's quiver. Merle nodded smiling brightly at Daryl. "Good... I missed havin' hotcakes."

The loud unexpected bang of the front door to the prison slamming open shook Daryl into action. Jumping to the edge of the loft he peered down at Carl who was trying to catch his breath. Walking through the hall of the prison he adjusted his hat on his head as he stuck his head in his dad's cell and a few words were uttered which Daryl couldn't quite catch. As Carl got closer now with Judith in his arms Daryl leaned down catching out of the corner of his eye as Merle hoisted himself up to stand along side him. He watched Carl pop into Hershel and Beth's cell and he thought... for a moment he was dropping the tike off for a while as he and Rick went to deal with something... but as Rick stepped out of the cell and bolted out of the prison and Carl followed suite with Hershel hot on his heels, Daryl got a sick uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. Jogging down the steps of the loft, he heard Merle huff but knew he wouldn't say much in protest. Not when it was you and Phoenix out there... not when so much was at stake. Glenn met him at the bottom of the steps, a grim expression and blood covering his hands. "Daryl..." He muttered softly. Dread filled Daryl's soul as he shook his head. "Hey... Let me go first..." Merle muttered softly, placing his hand on Daryl's shoulder. In a strange way it was grounding to know Merle was there. To know that if... if what he thought could possibly be outside Merle would handle it. Because Daryl knew deep in his soul he couldn't do it. He wasn't Rick... He couldn't handle it alone. As Glenn glared at his older brother something snapped inside himself. "He doesn't need you, Merle." Glenn hissed. Merle huffed but backed off like a dog scolded. "Hey! Don't fuckin' tell him nothin'!" Daryl growled stepping into Glenn's face. He knew he was in the wrong. He knew he was out of line. But his emotions were high. He'd ask for forgiveness later. Letting Merle skirt past him he kept his face as stoic as he could hold it as he walked passed Glenn and he followed his elder brother out into the yard to face his fear. Light shined down on Hershel and Rick as they examined the crumpled body of a woman laying in the yard. Beaten... battered... bleeding and broken... With no child... no Phoenix. Daryl wanted to scream. To cry. To break. Not his little girl... not his Phoenix. Not their baby... Not when he fought so hard to get them here. Not after everything he's seen. Not after Sophia... He couldn't loose her. He felt himself freeze for a moment. Hoping... praying that maybe if it happened if she was bit, you took care of it. He couldn't do it. But as you screamed out the doctor pulling a bloody rag from your leg he knew now wasn't the time to freeze or break down. [Y/N] needed him. His fucking wife needed him right fucking now. Daryl ran to your side as fast as he could his heart shattering as he every whimper and scream you uttered.

Your POV~~~~

You watched as Maggie poured some of the water from her canteen onto an old rag she held. Gently she swiped the now dried blood from your face before ushering you to lay flat in the grass. "I need ta look at your leg." She said softly, lifting your leg onto her own folded ones as she sat cross legged. Her fingers skimmed the underside of your thigh and with a sigh she shook her head as Rick came into view. "How is she?" He asked kneeling beside you he lit an oil lamp that was much too bright for the headache you didn't realize you had until now. Maggie shook her head but didn't say a word simply holding pressure to your leg as looked over other parts of your bruised body. "Rick..." You tried to talk but he shushed you placing a cool wet cloth across your forehead and his knees under your head. "Just rest..." He whispered softly, his fingers rubbing circles into your temples and easing the migraine. Although he looked around, the question was never asked of where Phoenix was and it killed you. Carl and Hershel were by your side before you knew it, Merle and Daryl not far behind. Like the blink of an eye and you had to wonder if you passed out or if they really were just fast. You couldn't hold back your emotions anymore at the sight of your husband. He looked like he was holding on by a thread. "Good evening [Y/N]." Hershel muttered, squeezing your free hand softly, letting Daryl take it from him as your husband took his place beside Rick. "How is she?" Hershel asked Maggie as he slowly knelt to the ground beside you. God that question was really starting to get old... Maggie shook her head once more. "She's got a lot of superficial cuts and nicks. But she was shot in the leg... it's still bleeding and didn't go the whole way through." She said confidently. "Holy... who the fuck shot ya?" Merle growled. You couldn't see him from over everyone else's head's but from the sound of it, he was pacing in frustration. A Dixon trait. "I-I don't know." You said softly finally letting the tears fall and sobs let loose. Covering your face with your arm you let yourself sob openly. "[Y/N]. You need to calm down." Maggie instructed pressing down on your leg harder to stop the flow of new blood. You could feel Daryl squeezing your hand and leaving soft wet kisses as his own tears met the back of your hand with fears that went unsaid. "Daryl I-I'm so sorry." You managed to whisper, pulling back your arm to meet his blue eyes. You felt your husband tense in your grasp but kept speaking. You had to let him know... "He took her. He took her before I could do anything-" Rick shuffled beneath you and you watched as he and Daryl shared a look. "He? What do ya mean he? The Governor?" Merle asked in rapid fire succession. You softly shook your head. "No... I- I don't know. He came at us from behind. Says he's in a group but I didn't get a name from him... I don't think their big. And I don't think they know about the prison." You said looking up at Rick. "He wanted to know about what we had. What weaponry... food... people." Meeting Daryl's worried eyes you continued. "He never hurt Phoenix. Not that I could see... He's using her as a bargaining chip. He wants six guns, I told him we only had eight. So he said we can keep two. He wants to... trade for her at the same spot he held her and I today." Daryl seemed to relax only slightly, taking a deep breath he leaned close to you, kissing your forehead gently and caressing your cheek softly. "Ya did good, Sunshine. Ya got home. Now let me take care of bringin' our baby home." His breath was but a whisper on your skin but it felt so soft and comforting all the same.

Hershel sighed pulling his kit closer to himself. "Do you think it hit bone?" He asked seriously. "Maybe." Maggie hummed moving her body up to take your hand down. "Ok. [Y/N]. I'm not gonna lie... this is gonna hurt like the dickens." Hershel muttered, lifting a pair of long and thin clamps. Handing a piece of leather to Maggie he sighed. "Put it in her mouth so she doesn't break her teeth." He murmured, pulling out a small metal dish to put the pieces of the bullet into. You had thought childbirth was bad. It was. But maybe only marginally worse than this. Hershel poured alcohol into the bullet wound to clean it out, fishing little bits of debris he found with the extra long clamps. You had thought when it all began that there would be a few pieces of bullet shrapnel in your leg. But now you understood that there was dirt, wood, and grass from your hike as well as the shrapnel. Worst of all the shrapnel refused to simply be pulled away from your wound, being melded with you either in your bone and having to be picked out one by one, or was so deep that Hershel nicked nerve every time he moved. You screamed and begged for a break, tears streaming down your face but he couldn't stop and risk loosing a piece in you, risk giving you lead poisoning, a lethal infection, or allow the metals in the bullet to seep in and give you cancer over time. As the moon rose to its position to it's peak in the sky, Hershel pulled the last piece of metal, holding it high in the air. "Ah... there it is." He said loudly to the relief of your family who had gathered. Maggie wiped the sweat that gathered on your brow. Rick, Daryl, and Merle had long since left your side. They hadn't strayed far. Just a few feet away to talk in peace about what you could only assume was the fate of Phoenix. Rick was looking forlornly at you as Carl, Glenn and Maggie all did their best to hoist you to your feet without making you sick.

Wrapping an arm around Glenn's shoulder's you pointed to your husband's direction. "I need ta talk to them before we go in." You muttered. Slowly the two of you made your way over to the group of men. Daryl was the first to turn to you both taking you from Glenn's arms into his own he hoisted you princess style despite your protests that you could in fact stand. "Bull shit... shouldn't be walkin' on that leg." He muttered laying a kiss on your temple. "[Y/N]." Rick said softly stepping forward. "We need ta know where ya were at when he attacked you... and where he took ya." You nodded and pointed in the direction of the elderberry grove you had been foraging earlier. "He attacked me over next to the creek in the elderberries." You stated watching as Rick grow serious and cock a brow. 'That's impossible... whoever was on guard duty should have seen you." He huffed, crossing his arms across his chest defensively. Staring back you shrugged. "Rick... I'm just telling you what happened. I don't know who all was on duty today but they didn't see us. So maybe that's a blind spot we didn't know existed until now or-" Rick shook his head glaring at no one in particular. "It's not a blind spot I can see that area on duty all the time..." You tilted your head, repositioning your hold on your husband's shoulders. "So what are you saying Rick?" You asked not trying to piss off the ex-cop further than you had to. Rick shrugged shaking his head, that wild faraway look coming back into his eyes. That one that just screamed that he wasn't all there. "I-I don't know... maybe someone in here is planning something with someone... out there." He hissed pointing exaggeratedly to the D Block then to the Elderberry bushes. Daryl shuffled you in his arms a worried look falling on his face as he looked between you and Merle who simply seemed far too understanding for the situation. "We ain't sain' that ain't a possibility... but [Y/N] said-" Daryl tried to explain once more. But Rick had shut down. It was clear in his eyes. "Hey! What we all need is rest... In the mornin' [Y/N] can lead us back to where ever we need ta be with six guns and a hell of a lot more with a group of us hidden in the bushes. Shit goes south we blow 'em away." Merle suggested. Rick sighed running a hand through his hair. "Yeah... lets just sleep on it and talk in the morning."

Daryl carried you slowly up the hill to the prison. The lamp and medical supplies were all cleaned by Maggie, Hershel, and Glenn. You made a mental note to thank them in the morning after you got Phoenix back. Merle walked side by side with Daryl. His gaze was firmly on your wounded form, scanning you for anything the doctor and his daughter could have missed. "Ya know this doesn't excuse you from makin' Daryl, Nix and I hotcakes right?" He teased smirking at you. The rumble in Daryl's chest was contagious as you both laughed, pressing your face into his neck. "Damn, Merle... you're right... if we make a pit stop on the way home tomorrow from picking Phoenix up, I'll even make elderberry hotcakes. How's that sound?" Merle smiled so contently and you couldn't blame him. Even though you knew this conversation was all a joke... that you didn't really have all the ingredients for your famous hotcakes... it was nice to pretend for a moment that in the midst of hell there was a moment of normalcy. "I think we can make that happen, little sister." Merle hummed reaching over with his good hand to squeeze your shoulder lightly.

The three of you stopped outside of the door to the prison, Daryl leaned against the concrete walls having placed you down, for the moment to smoke a cigarette before going in. He placed you gently in between his legs as he leaned against the brick wall of the prison, letting you lean your body against his own. You almost felt like you were highschoolers again... almost. Daryl combed through your hair with his free hand glancing down at your injured leg once in a while to make sure you were keeping it propped or up as he instructed. The smell of his cigarette wafted in the wind as he took a shaky breath listening to the first birds of early dawn sing their songs. Merle however. Merle paced back and forth out of sight of the metal door. He looked agitated and anxious. "Daryl I'm telling you..." He muttered, his voice a mere whisper. "I think Rick is to blame for this." You shifted uncomfortably against your husband's chest, not really appreciating the outfield accusation. But you had your suspicions too. Daryl however... Daryl was silent. The hand that was combing through your hair moved to wrap protectively around your waist, pulling you tight to his chest. There was a tenseness you could feel in his actions. He trusted Rick and was still loyal to him. And you knew he didn't want to risk that trust and loyalty for anything... but that was his little girl out there... not Judith or Carl. Not that it would have changed things if it were... for Daryl. As if on instinct Daryl caressed your tummy with his thumb missing the baby that was once there. You felt him shift nervously behind you pulling your body with him so that you didn't fall. "Dunno..." Daryl muttered finally taking an extra long drag of his cigarette. "Think it's horse shit that we aint out there right now lookin' fer her though." Daryl growled. Merle sighed running his hand through his thinning hair. "Nix can kick some ass if she needs... she's strong like her daddy and momma. She can make it through the night." He muttered holding his prosthetic out in the moonlight. "And if there's a single scratch on that girl I swear none of them men will have any balls left to show for it..." Nodding you glared hatefully at the elderberry bushes as if they had done you wrong themselves. "I think we should ride out once light breaks and try to get a leg up on the situation..." You muttered. You could feel the low rumble in Daryl's chest as he hummed lovingly squeezing you before laying a sweet kiss to the top of your head then your lips. "Nah... You're gonna stay here, sunshine. Get yer rest. We'll need ya later in the day." The taste of his his cigarette permeated the kiss. But you didn't mind... you never did. "That bein' said..." He muttered, flicking his cigarette off to the side before hoisting you into his arms once more. "Lets get you to bed."

Daryl had been kind enough to carry you to the shower room to help clean you up and with a little assistance he helped you take a shower, being sure to keep your new sutures and gunshot wound as dry as he physically could as the two of you bathed together. As weird as it was... it was oddly romantic standing in the prison shower stall alone together with Daryl. The full moonlight cascading on both of your wet bodies detailing every detail of each of you. Even in the darkness of the night you could clearly see the shampoo suds sliding from the top of Daryl's crown, down his toned body as he rinsed his head under the water, letting you hold the button down to release more hot water for him. He softly massaged your back with one of the many clean washcloths and helped to clean your body of any dry blood that Maggie may have missed, being extra delicate when touching upon one of your wounds. "Damn, baby." His whispered voice echoed through the large bathroom. "Bastard really clocked you good." Daryl hummed softly, worry dripping into every word as he massaged shampoo into your own hair, being extra gentle with the newly formed knot that he found that made you hiss and pull away. His worried blue eyes followed you as you leaned back to rinse your hair in the stream of water. "It'll heal." You muttered softly closing your eyes to keep the suds from falling into your eyes. The feeling of his fingers intertwining with your hair relaxed you under the stream of the water. The scratching of his nails on your scalp was welcome and inviting on a day like today. "Tell me if I hurt ya." He muttered. He was always so sweet and soft with you. Sitting up when your hair ran clear you wrapped your arms around Daryl's neck and shoulders kissing him fully, lovingly, completely. Pulling you into his lap Daryl deepened the kiss. Sliding your uninjured leg across his body you straddled his hips getting comfortable with him between your legs. Kissing down the length of your neck Daryl left sweet possessive hickies, his hands traveling from your waist to your back before landing on your chest. You don't know if it was because another man had laid hands on you, if it was a distraction from the fact Phoenix was still out there, or if it was because you were hurt. But Daryl had never been more gentle with you in your relationship when it came to sex before. Bouncing you gently he insisted that you allow him to do most of the work, his breathing hitched as you clenched around him when he found your most sensitive parts. Holding you close to his chest he let your foreheads rest against one another's as you rocked against him, your nails digging into his shoulders as your moans echoed across the bathroom walls. Even as your emotions overflowed and tears fell during, Daryl wiped them away with calloused thumbs, taking the time to insure that you were ok before he continued, kissing your shoulders, your neck, your cheek just to let you know how loved you were and that everything would be ok. His fingers ghosted across your skin feeling the goose pimples that rose there, letting you scratch his biceps as you reached your climax, watching as your head lulled and fell into his shoulder to hide your screams of pleasure only allowing himself to finish inside you once he was certain you had finished yours.

You had thought after having the day you just had, having to take two showers and having mind blowing sex you would have fallen to sleep immediately. But that was the farthest from the truth. That night was the longest of your life. Neither of you slept a single wink. Instead when Daryl laid you down in your shared loft bed, fully clothed and mostly dried you two simply stared at the window. Holding each other as tight as the other could stand you both angled yourselves to watch the sunrise literally counting the minutes until you both could run out in search of your daughter. Daryl's finger's skated along your back and through your hair as yours traveled the length of his chest and abs. "Do you remember when we took Phoenix to the pool for the first time?" Daryl suddenly asked. Looking up into his eyes you noticed they looked far away and distant. You nodded smiling as you allowed yourself to lay your head on your husband's chest. "Yeah. She was so perplexed by her little swimsuit and swimming diaper." You giggled thinking about how when Merle held her for the picture she peed all over him. "Yeah... we put her little feet in the pool and she screamed so loud I thought for sure the chemicals had burned her." Daryl chuckled his hand now combing through your wet hair. "She was always a little drama llama." You giggled kissing Daryl's chest. "Yeah... but once we put her in her Minnie Mouse floaties she took off and no one could catch her... she lived in the water." Daryl laughed, physically having to cover his mouth to stifle the laugh and keep from waking the others. You nodded feeling a sick unidentifiable dread fill your chest as you wrapped your arms around him. Tears slipped down your cheeks and although you tried your damnedest to keep it down a sob escaped your lips. "Yeah... she always loved to swim." You hiccupped through the sobs. Daryl was silent, but the way his body shook you could tell he was crying too. "We'll make a pool here... so she can swim here one day..." Daryl huffed out through a strangled sob and you couldn't help but curl tighter into his chest, burying your face in his shirt. Bawling harder than you can remember you grasped at his shirt gasping his shirt you tried to keep silent, and for the most part you were successful. Even when Daryl urged you to cry openly, to fuck them all and their sleep. But it was your sleep that won over in the end after all of your emotions drained you dry.

The sun was high in the sky when you woke and instantly you wanted to throw up with fear and anxiety. Jolting out of bed you cried out in pain, nearly falling down the stairs, catching yourself on the rail with a clash. "[Y/N]?!" Carol cried out rushing up the stairs to help you down. Tears rolled down your cheeks as sobs ripped through you. "Where's Daryl? Did they-" You tried asking but Carol cut you off pulling you into a tight hug once she got you down the stairs. "He's outside. They didn't leave yet... He just wanted you to get your rest before you all went out later." You nodded resting back against the wall. "I know you may not feel hungry... but you should eat." Carol muttered sliding a bowl of oatmeal in your direction. To be honest just looking at the food made you feel sick. But as you picked up the spoon with a shaky hand and took a bite you suddenly realized just how hungry you were. Pulling the plastic bowl closer you took large bites. "Thank you. I didn't realize I was hungry." You muttered once you had finished the entire bowl. Carol nodded smiling somberly. "I... felt similarly when Soph was missing." She confided leave it at that you didn't dare pry or let yourself dwell of any possibilities too much. The sliding of the metal door drew your attention away from dark and depressing as Daryl and Merle stepped in. "Good. Sleeping beauty is awake." Merle teased winking at you. Daryl rolled his eyes and sighed walking over to lift you into his arms. "Ya ready, sunshine?" he asked. With an uncertain nod he carried you outside. Daryl sat you in the passenger seat of the car as everyone grouped up to chat. "So are you sure he said to meet for this time?" Hershel asked you, pointing to the sky you had indicated when telling them earlier. The question merely made you doubt yourself and the placement the sun was in the sky when you were attacked. But you nodded and pointed to where it was based on what you could see before you passed out. "Alright..." Rick muttered running his hands through his hair. "We got an hour before we gotta be there... [Y/N] said she marked the trail. We look for the marks on the side of the road and go from there." Rick muttered watching Glenn and Carl pack the six "guns" into the car for transfer. "Daryl you ride with [Y/N], Merle, and Glenn to the trade site. Carl, Hershel, Carol, Maggie, and I will be in another car parked on the road we'll watch you all enter the trade site and make sure there are no unwanted followers. Maggie and Carol will follow first to set up. I will be close behind Hershel and Carl will stay in the car as back up in case we need them... Make sense?" He asked looking between everyone making eye contact before nodding sternly. "Alright... lets get Phoenix back.

The ride to the place you were held was absolute hell. Merle would not leave Glenn alone. Glenn would not stop fanning the flames and making Merle want to tease and pick more. Every time you yelled at either one of them you felt like the bad guy. You felt like the mom to two rowdy teens on a long road trip... except you couldn't threaten to turn this car around. No this road trip was too important. As you pulled up to the first of your visible markings you pointed it out to Daryl then reached out the window with your indicator flag you all made out of a florescent orange hunting vest and waved it once to indicate this was the spot. Daryl pulled to the side of the road. The trail was too small for the car to go down, Loading up with as many guns as they each could hold you lead them down the makeshift trail you created. It was so much shorter than you remembered, but the blood from the day before still laid in the field, unchanged and unmoved. Standing at one end of the field you began to feel antsy as you watched the sky. Ten minutes... glancing around you didn't see anything. Not a person scouting the area before hand. Not an animal peeking through the brush. The silence was palpable. Taking Daryls hand in your own you kept your wits about you. You didn't want to seem too vulnerable with Phoenix's captors... but you neither of you could do this alone. Looking up at the sky they were now officially late. You stood stock still. Listening for any sign of movement. Had you gotten the place wrong? The time? Anxiety washed over you as the silence continued to prevail only interupted by the small snapping of twigs as Rick settled in his place nearby. There were now twenty minutes late... despite Glenn's constant pleas to stay optimistic. "Maybe they hit traffic... or they had an emergency." You never felt more nervous and sick in your life. The bickering between Merle and Glenn slowly but surely started once more and the tenseness that your husband held in his body the night before slowly returned. Twenty minutes turned to thirty which turned to fifty as Carl came out to find his dad. You had gone to the corner of the field and vomited twice in this time and were just starting to begin to give up hope when an hour and a half rolled around. "Maybe... we should come up with a plan B..." Rick's voice tore through the silence and through your emotions. Taking what felt like the first breath since you arrived you began to hyperventilate shaking your head. "N-No..." you whispered running your hands through your hair. You had seen enough 48 hours before to know you didn't have time to come up with another plan... This was your plan...

Just as you felt you might melt into oblivion a sudden loud crash through the brush caught everyone's attention. Within a second everyone had their weapon's drawn and pointed at the noise. The brush on the side where the man was to bring Phoenix shook and swayed. "Come out slowly and we won't shoot!" Rick ordered cocking his pistol. The bush suddenly stopped shaking and a small whimper came from within it. "Wait. I'm stuck Uncle Rick." You thought for a moment, you were going to pass out. Lowering your gun you holstered it limping forward. "Phoenix?!" You cried out desperately. "I'm here momma!" She cried stumbling out of the briars with a little whimper. To your horror and awe, Phoenix was covered in blood. Standing midway in the field you stared at your little girl. Her body painted in blood. Slowly she looked up at you, her blue eyes meeting yours as a twisted grin reached her face. "I used the knife daddy gave me." She said proudly holding out the small pocket knife Daryl had given her to use in dire emergencies. "I used it just like Aunt Carol taught me and I remembered how to get here... I was hoping you'd still be here!" She squealed happily running up to you. The horrific realization that, your daughter had most likely killed men and faced the undead hit you like a brick in the stomach. But as you knelt down in the dry puddle of your own blood swiping away any of the blood that was still damp looking for wounds, scratches and bites. "Did you make sure they wouldn't come back?" You asked seriously, hiding your shaking hands behind her back as you pulled her close to you, holding her close catching Daryl out of the corner of your eye as he moved to kneel beside you both. Your husband's own face was ashen pale as if he himself had seen a ghost. "I did. I stuck them in the head just like aunt Carol said to." Phoenix said handing her little knife over to Daryl to close before hugging him tightly. "Aren't ya proud of me daddy?" She asked excitedly. You watched as Daryl's face morphed from disbelief to stunned shock, rageful hate filled anger at the world for making his little girl experience this, before it landed on acceptance... at least for now. "O-Of course I am baby girl... so, so proud of you. But, I don't want ya to have do this again unless-" She nodded pulling away with a smile. "It's an emergency. I know." She said. "Can we go home now? I feel sticky."

It had been two days since the incident... Daryl refused to go out on runs certain his family wasn't safe unless he was there despite Merle's promise's to keep you and Phoenix safe. You currently sat outside in the courtyard with Carl, Judith, Phoenix and Merle listening to Daryl and Rick's fight. "My daughter had to learn how to put people down damn it!" Your husband screamed. You could hear both Carol and Rick muttering something to him but... Daryl wanted to hear none of it. "I don't give a shit that you were trainin' them Carol!" He bellowed pulling Merle's attention. "Ain't never seen him so pissed." Merle sighed tinkering with his blade. "I did..." You replied, glancing at your brother-in-law. "The day we lost you. He nearly killed Rick then." Merle blinked seeming to think on this as if it were the first time he ever imagined that possibility. "What we should be focusing on is that whoever was on watch didn't see the whole fucking attack that happened just over the god damned gate!" You heard something metal clang against the concrete floor, only assuming that Daryl had resorted to pitching things or clearing the tables with a single swipe. "Sounds like he's about ready to do it again..." Merle joked, swiping a stray piece of hair from your daughter's face. You sighed looking longingly at Phoenix. "We were lucky... I think Daryl realizes that. But the chances of us being lucky again. They're slim Merle." You hummed meeting his gaze. He nodded meeting your gaze from the corner of his eyes. "I know." There was another loud crash that made all of you jump an Judith to cry out. Carl was quick to pick her up and start soothing her. He was best at it, and despite the shit he gave you all, he still was a kid at heart. "Damn it Daryl!" Rick finally yelled back. "I get you're pissed! I do! But throwin' shit around ain't gonna fix the problem!" With a sigh you slowly stood. "I better go stop Daryl before he really looses it." You sigh.

You could hear the fight more clearly as you painfully climbed the hill to the prison block. "Ya can't know there's not more out there Rick! I want to be sure there's no one out there right now lookin' for us." Daryl hissed. Rick sighed nodding. "We can look while we're out on runs but we need you for that Daryl." Your husband shook his head, pacing back and forth. "Nah... not til I know who was on watch when they went missin'. I want to know they can't go on watch no more." Rick shuffled his feet and shook his head. "Look we need all the help we can get..." Daryl seemed to only get more aggravated at that growling before flipping a metal chair... or another chair... you found the reason of the last major crash. Looks like the first chair went through some old wooden creates the prison had. "Bull shit!" Daryl growled pointing at Rick. "Tell me it wasn't you then... you said there's no blind spots there so tell me why it wouldn't be you." He accused walking over to where Rick stood. You watched in horror as Daryl got in Rick's face just like he was in high school itching for a fight. "Guys!" You screamed limping over to the two, catching their attention just before they threw fists. "That's enough!" Daryl huffed backing off but not down. "Well?" He hissed. Rick seemed to be juggling his words carefully before he nodded. "I-I was on duty when it happened..." He admitted. "But I don't remember it at all." You sighed frowning deeply. It was as you feared. "Rick... could you have been on the other side of the prison?" Rick shook his head as Daryl paced back and forth running his hands through his hair a new wave of axiety rushing through him. "So anything could have gotten through or been peeking in while you had an episode?" He growled. Rick sighed obviously frustrated with the way the question was worded so you rephrased it. "So you just go blank for a little while... or is it like something else?" You asked seriously. Rick relaxed a bit. "It's not as bad as when I was... seeing her all the time... I still do... but it's different. I-It's hard to explain." You nodded looking to Daryl. "Maybe we should delegate the patrol duty for a little while... train the newbies? And you can... take a break." You suggested. Hershel nodded, picking up one of the chairs Daryl threw. "You'll still be head just... with less to do." He murmured. Rick sighed. "I always wanted to farm..."

A few hours passed by. You couldn't seem to keep your eyes off of Phoenix. It was still so miraculous to you that she made it back to you at all. That she defied all odds and made it home. You wondered what fresh hell she went through then decided that maybe it was better if you didn't know for now... she would tell you in her own time. Daryl was laying beside her in the bed. You both watched her little sleeping form as if she were the newborn you both brought home from the hospital again. You rubbed sweet circles into her back before curling tight against the two of them. "Our baby is home Daryl." You whispered kissing his lips sweetly. Daryl nodded kissing your forehead. "Went through hell an' back again... but the little demon looks like she thrived there... she looks stronger for it. That normal?" You giggled softly and shrugged. "Dunno... I think so nowadays... Look at Carl." You teased loving the chuckle that tore from your husband's throat. "Yeah I suppose so..." He muttered, pulling you down for another kiss. "I love ya, sunshine. Get some rest."