thewalkingthread

[thewalkingthread]

Okay I NEED to know y’all’s opinion on the last episode.

[thewalkingthread]

you're losing me - r.g. (part 2)

part 1

pairing: rick grimes x reader

summary: you're adjusting to life after rick cheats on you

warnings: cursing, rick is an absolute lost puppy without you

author's note: i'm not sure what you guys were wanting in the part two in terms of resolution, but i wrote this with intentions of rick being a loser LOL BUTTTTTT, I can absolutely make an alternate ending where they work it out. but for now, boss babe Y/N.

-

It's been a month since you and Rick broke up. The day after you caught him and Jessie you packed all your stuff up and moved into Daryl's little cabin just outside the walls.

It was odd at first, being away from Rick. Being away from Carl and Judith. It was miserable. You were miserable.

You stayed in the cabin for a week straight, despite Daryl's several attempts to make you go into the walls with him during the day. Eventually he stopped, knowing you would face everyone when you were ready.

By everyone, you meant Rick.

Everyone caught on pretty fast considering you moved out of the house, out of the whole community. Maggie and Carol were the first to come see you and ask what happened.

It wasn't until Carl came knocking on the door with Judith on his hip that you decided to take that step and go back in to the walls.

According to Carl, everyone knows what happened. Everyone knows that Rick cheated. Everyone knows it was with Jessie- not like that was a surprise to anybody.

Your first day back inside was awful. Everyone kept giving you pity glances, knowing that you were the victim. You hated it. Yes, Rick cheated on you but you definitely didn't need anyone's pity.

You avoided Rick like the plague at first. Any sight of him you were turning the opposite direction. Whether you liked it or not, Rick is the leader of Alexandria- your leader.

You couldn't avoid him forever. But you sure as hell did your best.

Now a month later, you still weren't okay. Who would be after finding your boyfriend macking on another woman he told you not to worry about?

"I'm here to relieve you of your duties, madam." Abraham bowed deeply to you. You rolled your eyes, handing him the rifle.

"Thank you, kind sir." You laughed, heading down the ladder. Things were a bit easier now. People were acting normal towards you again, everyone was moving forward.

Well, not everyone.

Rick has made several attempts just to get you to glance at him, let alone speak to him. Despite him cheating on you with Jessie, you haven't seen them together since then. It seems that they broke off whatever they were.

It didn't matter though, the damage was done. The trust was broken.

You walked towards the pantry, needing to take note of the things we were running low on for the next run with Daryl.

Your footsteps slow down when you hear commotion by the pond. You see Carl and Ron a few feet apart from each other. You could tell just from their body language that things weren't alright.

You stopped, watching them for a second before deciding whether or not you should intervene. They're teenage boys, surely they can sort out their issues.

"Well your mom is a homewrecker!" Carl shouts at Ron. "She knew my dad and Y/N were in a relationship!"

Ron scoffs, raising an eyebrow at Carl. "It's not her fault your dad is a cheating pig! He chose to cheat on Y/N, sorry my mom's better."

Before you knew it, Carl was lunging himself at Ron. "Take it back, you little shit!" The two boys began to roll around in the grass, wrestling one another.

You ran towards them, other people stopping to witness the commotion.

"Y/N, is the best thing that's ever happened to my dad." Carl grunted, landing a punch to Ron's face.

"Carl!" You shout once you reach the boys. You pull on his shoulder, trying to tug him off of Ron. "Get off of him, Carl." You urge.

Much to your dismay, the boys continue to pull at each other, both trying to land a punch.

"What the hell-" You hear the all too familiar southern accent from behind you. You look around and see a small group of people gathered around. Jessie comes bursting through the wall of people, seeing her son on the ground with a black eye.

Rick manages to pull Carl off of Ron, pushes him back. You grab onto Carl, checking him over to see his bruises that were already forming.

"Do one of you want to tell me what the hell is going on?" Rick shouts at the two teenagers.

Both of the boys glare at each other, neither one of them saying anything. Rick glances around the area, "Nothing to see here." He shoots everyone a look. Everyone scatters except Jessie, who pulls her son off the ground.

"Carl?" He angles his head to his son once the crowd disperses.

Carl scoffs, rolling his eyes.

"Don't you roll your eyes at me, son." Rick clenches his jaw. "You think this is acceptable be-"

Carl stops him before he can finish. "Oh save it, dad! Everything was fine. Everything was great! But you decided to cheat on Y/N and then everything went to shit!" Carl snaps.

“Carl-“

“No! Y/N left and now we’re all feeling emptiness! I’m feeling it, Judith is feeling it- You’re feeling it.”

"You want to talk about acceptable behavior?” Carl scoffs, nodding his head up at his dad. “Check yourself first." He shakes his head before walking away.

You stand there awkwardly. Rick glances at you as if to ask for an explanation. You cock an eyebrow at him and shrug your shoulders.

Carl has a point.

“He’s a smart kid,” You say smugly before heading away.

“Look, Y/N-“ you could hear Rick’s footsteps follow shortly behind you. His hand latched onto your elbow softly, halting you in your spot. “Can we talk… please.”

There was a desperation in his voice that you haven’t heard before. His eyes stared at you deeply, dark bags had formed beneath his eyes and the wrinkles on his face seemed deeper.

“I don’t really think there’s anything to talk about, Rick.” You shake your head at him.

His frown deepens. “There is, there’s so much we need to talk about. I- I need to say things. Explain myself-“

You raise an eyebrow at the scuffed up man in front of you. “Explain yourself? There’s nothing you can say that will justify you cheating on me.” Your voice raises slightly, causing the few surrounding people to glance at you two.

“Y/N, please. Can we just talk?” He glances around. “Somewhere private?”

You sigh deeply, glancing around the audience around you. “Fine.”

You turn on your heels, heading towards the house. Rick followed closely behind you, you could practically feel his breathe on your neck.

Carl was on the living room floor with Judith, playing with some blocks and dolls. His eyes lock on yours when you open the door, a smile spreads on his face before disappearing when he sees Rick step in behind me.

The father and son lock eyes before Rick nods his head towards the stairs. Carl rolls his eyes before pushing himself off the ground and stomping towards the stairs.

“Carl-“ Rick glares at the boy. You put your hands up to stop him.

“I’ll go talk to him,” you shush Rick quickly before following Carl up the stairs. He was on his bed, a comic book opened in his hand.

“Hey, you.” You smile at Carl as you knock on the door frame.

Carl sighs deeply when he sees you. “I’m not going to apologize for hitting, Ron.” He mumbles.

You laugh, head tilting backwards. “Oh, please. I wouldn’t want you to. The little shit deserved it.” You smile at him, stepping into his room. You sat at the end of his bed.

“Are you okay?” You ask.

Carl frowns, shutting the comic book and tossing it to the side.

“I miss you. We miss you.” He says. “It’s different without you. Judith doesn’t sleep through the night anymore, dad can’t cook for shit. The house is a mess, there’s no order.” He ranted on.

“Things between me and dad have been hard. He knows I’m angry with him and so there’s this weird tension between us.” He sighs.

You bite your bottom lip, hearing the frustration and tiredness in Carls voice.

“Do you think I should give him a second chance?” You ask Carl, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Honestly? No. He doesn’t deserve it. He doesn’t deserve you.” Carl shakes his head. “You shouldn’t be with something that makes you question their loyalty.”

“You know, no matter what happens with me and your dad… Our relationship will never change. I’ll always be here for you, Carl. No matter what.” You reach out, placing your hand on top of his to give it a good squeeze.

“Thank you for sticking up for me to the little brat.” You smile, lightening the mood. Carl gives you a smile, nodding his head.

“I guess I better get downstairs. Just wanted to make sure you’re okay. And hey, cut your dad some slack… what he did to me was wrong, but that’s an issue for me and your dad.”

Carl nods his head in defeat as you walk towards the door.

“Hey, Y/N.” You stop, turning back at the teenager.

“I meant what I said. He doesn’t deserve you.”

You give him a tight lip smile and nod your head before heading downstairs. You could hear Judith’s cries from the top of the stairs. Your heart instantly breaks at the sound.

Rick’s in the middle of the living room, bouncing Judith in his arms in an attempt to soothe her. Her cries seemed to get louder as soon as she saw you walking down the stairs.

Her cries turned into screams as she thrashed in Ricks arms.

“Ma!!” She cried, reaching for you. “Ma-maaa,” she screams between cries. Rick looks at you desperately as you approach the pair.

You reach for the toddler, your hands grazing Rick’s at the hand off. The screams instantly subsides once she’s in your arms. She hiccups as she clutches onto you.

Rick sighs and falls onto the couch. You sit at the opposite end of the couch, Judith lets her head rest on your chest, trying to calm down.

“Carl said she hasn’t been sleeping well,” You break the silence between you.

Ricks eyes squeeze shit as he pinches the bridge of his nose. “None of us have since you left,” he mumbles.

Your heart breaks a little at the thought. You don’t say anything after that, not really sure what to say. Rick shifts his body towards you and you really take in his current appearance.

He looked tired.

“I know I messed up,” he starts. “I know there’s nothing I can do to change what I did. But I want to fix this- I want to fix us.” The desperation stays in his voice.

“This past month has been absolute hell, without you. I’ve been- I’ve been miserable.”

Good.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for hurting you, I’m so sorry for ruining us. Please just let me make it right. Please give us another shot, Y/N.”

The way he was looking at you right now was almost enough to make you crack.

Almost.

"I can't," I said quietly. The room fell still. Silence enveloped us in a suffocating hug.

"I'm sorry, Rick. I can't." I repeated. I felt tears well up in my eyes, saying it out loud.

It's taken an entire month for me to even be able to look Rick in the eyes. I was a few begs away from giving in and taking him back.

He doesn't deserve you.

Carls words rang in your mind.

"I think you and I both know the end of our relationship began as soon as we stepped into this place." You frowned. "Whether you meant for it to happen or not, you allowed this place- Jessie, to drive a wedge between us." You sigh.

"You." You lock eyes with him. "Not me." You shake your head.

"I let it go on for a while. I forced myself to just deal with a lot of the stuff. The late nights, missing dinners, forgetting dates." The memories of you waiting endlessly for Rick caused a scowl to settle on your face.

"I really wanted us to work. I loved us. I thought we were it." A small chuckle leaves your mouth. "I would've lassoed the moon for you if I could. Even though you hurt me over and over again with each lie, I wanted to stay. Because I loved you with everything I am."

Rick's jaw clenches and his eyes are moving around the room repeatedly before settling onto yours sadly.

"Loved." His voice cracked.

You gave him a tight sad smile.

"I asked Carl if I should give you another chance." You clear your throat. "He said, no."

Rick tugged his bottom lip between his teeth.

"Said you don't deserve me."

Rick chuckles with a nod. "He's a smart kid," Rick echoes what you said earlier that day.

"I really did love you, Rick." You reach over, latching his hand in yours. "I'll always care for you. For the kids. Y'all have a special place in my heart." You nod, holding Judith close to you.

"Would you believe me if I said I do love you?" Rick cocked his head to the side. "That I'll spend every day of my life loving you even if you hate me." Something in his eyes tell you that he's being 100% honest.

You squeeze his hand 3 times.

"Thank you for everything." You offer him a smile. Despite better judgement, your body leaned towards him, capturing his lips with yours for one last time.

Rick sighed deeply, taking you in for the last time.

Rick watched as you got up to put Judith to sleep. Then he watched as the love of his life walked out the door because of his stupid mistakes.

[thewalkingthread]

when I tell you I started sobbing when she pulled out the drawing of Carl….

[thewalkingthread]

no but seriously he's "cut off my own hand to get back to my wife" crazy and she's "grab my husband and jump us both out of a flying helicopter in the middle of a storm to deprogram him" crazy. have two people ever been more made for each other

[thewalkingthread]

I’m watching episode three for the plot.

The plot:

[thewalkingthread]

more of this fine ass man tomorrow hehe

[thewalkingthread]

Part two of 'You're losing me' if thats okayy ! 🤭

In the works as we speak!!!!

[thewalkingthread]

i found you - r.g. (moodboard)

pairing: rick grimes x reader

summary: on your search for rick, you're faced with an unknown group. little did you know, they one of the soldiers was more familiar than you thought.

warnings: NOT REVISED, violence, cursing, walking dead gore

author's note: this is loosely based off of events from the ones who live. I've only been thinking about Rick since the show aired but am going to post a Daryl one shot soon! This will definitely have a part 2!

-

You pressed your back against the wall of the warehouse. You glanced over at Bailey who had a grenade loaded and ready to blow. He glanced at you, waiting for you to give him the okay.

You glanced back at the group of soldiers that was slowly spreading around the open area.

They'd been on your tail for some time after dropping a bomb on the town you were tucking in for the night with a group. You and Bailey were the only ones who survived.

You were certain is was the same group. Same black uniforms, same helmets, same heaping amount of artillery on them. You were beyond doubtful that you would get out of this situation, but you had to.

You had to keep going. You had to find Rick. You had to go home.

You nodded your head at him and he threw the grenade in the middle of the warehouse before you both ran for cover. Seconds later explosion rocked the ground, the groans and shouts of the soldiers echoing through the now decrepit warehouse.

Their bodies were thrown across the floor.

"I'm going to finish them off," Your eyes darken as you step towards the dying men. You grab the red handled machete, gripping it tight as you walked.

Bailey wasn't too far behind you, keeping his weapon drawn as you approached the bodies.

You kicked over the first person, grabbing the bottom of the helmet and throwing it to the side. The man was groggy, fading in and out of consciousness but you grabbed his vest and pulled him up towards you, making sure he got a good look at your face before you slowly slid your machete through his forehead.

You dropped his body onto the ground, moving on to the next, repeating the same process. These men killed the people that were helping you. They deserved nothing short of a painful death.

There was one man left, trying his best to crawl away. You wanted to laugh at his desperation.

You kicked him in the stomach, his body curling up at the contact.

"You,"

Kick.

"Killed,"

Kick.

"Everyone!"

You shouted in frustration, grabbing the man by his uniform and pulling him up to his feet.

"Fight. Back." You shout, shoving him by his chest.

He kept his head down, probably still trying to recover from the grenade. The man stumbled back, barely able to hold his body up on his own.

You knock him to the ground, ready to end it. In one swift movement he swipes his leg against yours, causing you to land flat on the ground. You groan at the sudden impact, your machete sliding just out of your reach.

He grabs you by your helmet, pulling it towards him in a jerky motion. He's about to punch you but Bailey swings his staff at the guys back, dropping him to the ground.

You nod at Bailey, thanking him. You pulled your helmet off, catching your breathe as you reach down for your machete.

You pull the guys helmet off and swing the machete down in one fluid motion. His brings his arm up to your wrist, stopping you.

Your eyes meet and your heart seems to stop. You drop the machete to the ground, stumbling a few steps back.

Those blue eyes you've been dreaming about were now staring back at you.

"R-Ri-" You gasped out.

His face mirrored yours in complete shock. He pushes himself off the ground, closing the space between you.

"Rick!" You cried out, collapsing into his arms once he was within reach. You couldn't control the sobs that left your mouth once you were completely in his embrace.

"Y/N," Rick inhaled deeply, his lips pressing to your neck. "You found me." He mumbled.

"I found you," You cried, grabbing at his clothing, as if he would disappear if you let go even just a little bit.

Rick pulls away first, but just enough to cup your cheek and press his lips to yours. It's been damn near 7 years since your lips last touched and you could tell from how desperate this kiss was.

There was an awkward cough from beside you.

You both pull away, an awkward chuckle leaving you as you glance at Bailey.

"So is this the famous Rick Grimes?" He raises an eyebrow. You nod your head, biting your bottom lip.

"Rick, this is Bailey." You introduce the two. The give each other nods, before Bailey glances around the dead bodies.

"I," Rick starts. "I know what it looks like... But I'm not one of them. I just-" He looks ashamed.

"I know. I know, Rick." You nod your head, wrapping your arms around him again.

"Is everyone okay? Alexandria? J-Judith..."

"They're okay. Everyone is okay. Judith- she's perfect." You nod your head presses a kiss to his face. A breathe of relief leaves his mouth and his nods, relaxing his shoulders at the reassurance.

"We have to get home. Everyone- They'll all be so excited to see you." You gushed.

"It's not that simple, Y/N..." Rick frowns. "The people, these people. They're not that simple." He shakes his head.

"I can't- I can't go with you." He mutters.

"What?! Rick are you crazy?" You furrowed your eyebrows.

"I'll get away. I will." He tries to reassure you. "You have to go." His voice cracks. "Both of you, you have to go back home. More soldiers will come looking for us and you can't be here when they get here. You have to go home." He squeezes your hand.

"I just got back to you, I am not leaving your side." You say through gritted teeth.

"We don't have a choice, darling." He pleads with you. "Please, I know what I'm doing. I will find a way out. I will get back home to you, I swear." The deep groan of a helicopter catches your attention.

"You have to go. Now. Get home and tell everyone to prepare to fight, or run. Those are the only options." He mutters hurriedly. "I'm sorry this was so short. But I will find you again, my darling."

"Y/N, they're getting closer. We have to go." Bailey urges.

Tears well in your eyes as he tugs you away from Rick. You press one more kiss to his lips, savoring every moment, knowing this could very well be the last.

"I love you, my darling." He says against your lips. "So, so much."

[thewalkingthread]

you're losing me - R.G.

part 2

pairing: rick grimes x reader

summary: officer friendly gets too friendly with a certain blonde haired woman

warning: cheater!rick, swearing, kinda sad, established relationship, not a happy ending

a/n: idk man, hope you like it

word count: 1,991

"It's already dead, ya know? Don't have to keep stabbing it." Daryl grunted as he dropped his plate of food on the table, sitting in the empty spot of the wooden picnic table next to you.

You glanced down at your food, multiple holes littered the piece of meat from you stabbing it with your fork. You sighed, dropping the fork on the plate and rubbing your clammy hands on your jeans.

Your eyes landed back on the two people a few yards away. They've been laughing and talking for the past 20 minutes. Not a care in the world. You couldn't hear what they were saying, the chatter and noise of the picnic party drowning out their conversation. It didn't matter though, seeing their interactions told you enough. Some people would say they looked quite good together. Except, the only problem is, the man was your boyfriend.

"He ain't gonna do nothing with er." Daryl's eyes followed yours. You roll your eyes, your hands tightening in a fist.

It's been 5 months since the group arrived to Alexandria and you had a bad feeling about Jessie the moment you saw her.

The first day you arrived, you and Rick took a much needed shower together. While you opted to unpack the little stuff you guys had, Rick was downstairs getting a haircut from Jessie.

You walked into the kitchen, surprised that you had a guest. You were even more surprised to find Rick shirtless, sitting in a chair while this woman runs her hand through his hair.

"Wouldn't be too sure." You muttered back, forcing yourself to look down at your plate.

Daryl grunts beside you, giving you a nudge. "Rick's done a lot of stupid shit, but I don't think he's dumb enough to fuck things up with you. If he does, it's his loss, anyway."

Daryl's words are supposed to be comforting, but it does the exact opposite. Was it a possibility that Rick would betray you like that?

You glanced back up at the two again. Jessie threw her head back in laughter as her hand lands on his chest, slapping him playfully. Ever since Rick killed her husband, the two of them have been awfully close.

Everyone has noticed. You don't miss the passing glances and sorry looks on peoples faces whenever they pass you. You know what they're thinking. You'd be thinking the same thing if you were in their shoes.

Something changed the night Rick killed Pete. Not just for Alexandria but for the two of you as well.

It didn't happen all at once. It was gradual. Rick was slowly pulling away, he probably didn't even realize it. But you did. You remember every time he'd come home later than promised. You remember every time he told you one thing and then ended up changing his story later. You remember every time he'd slip out of bed in the middle of the night and sneak back in an hour or so later.

You weren't sure if Rick was cheating on you with Jessie, but you were pretty confident that your relationship was going downhill. It wasn't a matter of if you would break up, it was, when.

"Y'know," You turn your head towards Daryl as he interrupts your thoughts once again. "You could always just tell er to fuck off." He shrugs, bringing the chicken leg up to his mouth.

You bite the inside of your cheek, watching as Jessie's hand grazed Rick's bicep. You huff, standing from the picnic table.

"Atta girl," Daryl slaps the table with his hand as you toss your plate into the trash on the walk towards Rick and Jessie.

Jessie's attention turns to you as you approach the two. Rick smiles at you, holding his arm out for you. You smile, sliding into his body, naturally melting against him.

"Hey, darlin." He mumbles, giving your shoulder a squeeze.

"Hi," You sigh. "Is it okay if I steal my boyfriend?" You give Jessie a tight lipped smile, tugging on Rick to follow you before she could even respond.

Rick chuckled lightly as you both walked away. "Everything alright, darlin?" He asked.

You shake your head. "Can't say I enjoy other women fondling my boyfriend." You grumble.

Rick stops you both in place. His hands settle at your shoulders as he holds you still to look at him. "She was not fondling me." He rolls his eyes slightly.

"Whatever you say, Rick. Everyone can see the way you two act. Have me out here looking like a damn fool." You roll your eyes.

"How many times are we gonna have to talk about this?" His eyes glared down at you.

"Well, how long are you going to keep flirting back and forth with her?" You scoff.

Rick's jaw clenches tightly as he stares at you. This wasn't the first argument you've had about this topic. You've definitely brought up your distaste to Rick about his lady friend.

"You're being insecure and ridiculous." Rick drops his hands. "If you don't trust me, just say it."

Your eyes widened at his choice of words. You gulped the saliva that built in your mouth. "Fine," You throw your hands up before locking eyes with him. "I don't trust you. Until you can prove to me that I can, I don't want anything to do with you. Feel free to go back to your little friend." You shoot him a glare.

"Fine!" He glares right back. Your jaw clenches as he steps back from you, not really expecting him to respond that way.

"Fine," The word came out as a whisper to yourself as you watched him walk back towards Jessie who was now talking with Maggie and Carol.

You willed yourself to turn around, heading straight towards your shared house. You slam the door shut, locking it behind you before pacing the living room a few times.

There's been several times when your relationship with Rick has been rocky. There have been times where things were said out of anger and the heat of the moment. There's been times when you questioned the future of your relationship.

But it was never like this. Never this... definite.

You spend the next several hours deep cleaning the entire house, doing anything to try to get your mind off of Rick. You hadn't realized how late it was till Carl strolled in with Judith.

"Hey, Y/N!" He nods his head. "What's for dinner?" He looks around the spotless kitchen, noticing there's no food set out.

"Oh shit-" You mumble, looking at the time on the clock. "I'll throw something together..." You pull open the fridge, getting ingredients for a simple pasta dish.

"Hey, uh-" You glance at Carl. "Have you seen your dad anywhere?" You ask, trying your best to sound nonchalant.

Carls shakes his head with a shrug, putting Judith on the ground to play. "Not since the picnic. Why? Is everything okay?"

Nope. Not at all.

You force a smile on your face and nod. "Yeah, everything's fine. He just hasn't come home since then. Sure he'll be home soon for dinner."

He wasn't home for dinner.

He wasn't home to say goodnight to the kids.

You let out a deep sigh looking at the clock one more time.

It was almost 9:30 now and he still hadn't come back.

You weren't eager to see him but you knew you both had things to talk about. In defeat, you grabbed a jacket and pulled on your shoes.

You checked on Judith one more time before slipping out of the house to find Rick. You checked the gate first, thinking he'd taken an extra shift on watch just to avoid coming home. When he wasn't there you checked each post on the perimeter, coming up empty.

Eventually you just wandered the streets aimlessly.

You stopped in front of Jessie's house. The lights were all off. Surely he wasn't in there, right? Your eyes landed on the open garage, light spilling from it.

Jessie was probably up working on some art, it wouldn't be the first time. You contemplate going up and asking her if she'd seen Rick recently, but something about doing that just felt so pathetic.

You mustered up the last bits of pride you had left and made your way up the driveway. You were immediately stopped in your tracks when you catch sight of Jessie.

And Rick.

Kissing.

Jessie's arms were slung around Rick's neck while his were gripping either side of her hips. Gripping.

Your entire world shatters at the sight.

The gasp that leaves your mouth was automatic and sharp.

Rick pulls away first at the sound. Even if he didn't know it was you, he knew he was caught.

His eyes go from panic to regret the second they lock onto yours.

"Y-Y/N," He lets go of Jessie, taking two steps towards you.

You stumble back, your eyes moving between the two. Jessie is staring at you with wide eyes, unsure what to do. Rick kept taking steps towards you, matching the steps you took back.

You shook your head, turning away from them and sprinting the opposite direction. You didn't stop sprinting till his calls for you faded to nothing.

There wasn't many places you could run to while confined in the walls, but you couldn't be near him right now. You couldn't go home. You just needed to be alone.

You stopped at the windmill, sneaking to the back and sliding against the wall to the ground. The moment you stopped to catch your breathe, you let the tears fall from your eyes.

Even with how bad things with Rick have been, you didn't think he'd ever betray you like this. The thought of him cheating on you crossed your mind once but you convinced yourself that he was a good man and he would never hurt you like that.

You were wrong.

You wanted to slam your head against the wall. Anything to distract your from the pain in your chest.

The sound of his boots thumping against the dirt met your ears. You didn't take your face out of your hands when you heard them stop only a few feet away from you. You didn't bother looking up even when you could feel him there. You could feel his eyes burning into the top of your head.

"I'm sorry," He said simply.

You almost wanted to laugh.

"Y/N, I'm so sorry."

You drop your hands, looking at his dirty boots in front of you. He crouches down in front of you, hoping to get your attention.

"I just want to know why," Your tired eyes land on his. Rick's mouth opens to speak before he shuts it again, trying to muster up an answer.

Rick sighed, shaking his head. "I don't know." He admitted.

"How long?" You raised an eyebrow at him, doing your best to stop your voice from cracking, but the quiver was there.

"That was the first time. I swear." His hands grab onto yours and it feels like fire on your skin. You yank your hands away, causing him to flinch. "I swear on my life, baby-"

"Don't." You spit out, "You don't get to call me that ever again." You pick yourself off the ground. "I really hope she's worth it, Rick. I hope she's worth losing us over." You sniffle the last of the snot in your nose, stepping to the side to escape Rick.

You were a few strides away when his voice broke through the air.

"It felt like I was losing you... I didn't know wha-"

I didn't know what to do.

Your eyes rolled so badly, they could've fell right out of your head. You spin around to face him once more. His face hidden in the shadows, only half of his face lit by the street lantern.

"Didn't know cheating was a valid reaction to that." You scoff, "Congratulations. You've officially lost me." You call out before walking away from Rick.

[thewalkingthread]

i NEED one shots of new CRM!Rick. That first episode of TOWL had me on my knees.

Send them my way. Or give me ideas of ones to write hehe

[thewalkingthread]

Space (Daryl's POV) - D.D.

part one

pairing: daryl dixon x reader

summary: things aren't the same between you and daryl.

warning: still sad

a/n: i am planning on doing a part 2 but i needed to give you daryl's side first (also, I know this is in 3rd person, but it's giving a bit of insight on Daryl's thought process so I'm labeling it as his POV)

Daryl sat outside on the porch, staring into the sunset, his mind lost in a maze of thoughts and responsibilities. He pulls the cigarette snug between his fingers to his lips. As he took a drag, the smoke curled into the air, surrounding him before disappearing into nothing.

You were inside the house, with RJ and Judith, the sounds of laughter and the occasional clanging of pans echoed from inside the house. RJ and Judith were a constant reminder of the world they were trying to preserve, but the weight of responsibility had carved a gap between you and him.

Daryl knew things haven't been right between him and his lover. He's known for a long time now, but he doesn't know how to fix it. Daryl couldn't pinpoint the exact moment things took a turn, the exact moment he started to pull away from you. It just sort of happened. Things would be easier if he simply just stopped loving you, but that wasn't the case.

In reality, Daryl loved you so much that it hurt him. He loved you so much that he didn't know what to do with it, he'd never loved anyone like this before.

The absence of Rick and Michonne took a toll on Daryl. He's the one that took the biggest hit, for obvious reasons. Suddenly he had two kids, suddenly everyone was asking him the important questions. Suddenly he wasn't just a redneck with a crossbow, he was a leader- the leader. He could feel the weight of everyone's expectations, the burden of leadership now resting solely on his shoulders. He was a tracker, a survivor, but a leader – that was a role he never asked for, a role that felt like an ill-fitting mask.

The pressure was suffocating, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he was failing, not just as a leader but as a partner.

There were too many things that needed to be fixed, too many people to please, too many walkers to be killed. Daryl felt like everything he was doing just wasn't good enough.

He knew it wasn't fair. He knew the community deserved a good leader. A leader that knew what he was doing, someone that was a natural born leader, someone like Rick Grimes. Daryl knew he wasn't no Rick Grimes. Daryl knew it wasn't fair to the kids. They deserve to be raised and loved on by their parents.

Most importantly, he knew it wasn't fair to you. You, who had stood by his side through thick and thin, weathering the storms of this apocalyptic world together. You deserved more than a love burdened by the weight of his insecurities and doubts.

Even knowing that, Daryl couldn't bring himself to take action in his own home. So the gap between the two of you grew with every passing day.

The front door swings open, "Dinner's ready!" RJ sticks his head out of the doorway, sending Daryl a toothy smile.

Daryl grunts, "Be right there." RJ runs back inside, leaving the door open. With one more drag, he snuffed out the cigarette and heads inside.

Judith is setting out plates while you bring the food to the table. Your eyes meet his and it's almost instinct for you to immediately look elsewhere. Everyone takes their place around the table, Daryl taps the top of the kids heads as he passes. With a slight hesitation, Daryl places a small kiss to the top of your head before settling in his own seat.

"Thanks for cookin," Daryl mumbles to you. You're looking at him with slightly wide eyes before you nod at him with a small smile.

After dinner Daryl volunteered to clean up around the house, relieving you from your regular routine so you could relax a bit before bed. Admittedly, Daryl took his time, not exactly rushing to get everything in order.

Daryl locks all the doors and turns off all the lights before entering the bedroom. The bed was empty and the bathroom door was wide open. Daryl pauses in his place for a moment, debating whether or not he should go back downstairs and wait for another hour.

Daryl shakes his head, stepping towards the bathroom before he could psych himself out. You were laying in the bathtub with your eyes closed, completely relaxed in the warm water.

Your head turns at the sound of his footsteps and your eyes lazily open to see Daryl leaning against the bathroom doorway. He offers a a half smile, feeling a twinge of guilt for intruding on your relaxing time.

You close your eyes again, resting your head back on the rolled up towel. Daryl shifts towards the sink, starting his nighttime routine.

"Do you want to join me?" Your voice cuts through the silence. Daryl glances over his shoulder towards you, who still kept your eyes closed. Daryl stood up straight, clearing his throat slightly.

"Yuh want meh to?"

"Wouldn't ask if I didn't want you to, hotshot." The nickname that you coined him early in your friendship tugged at Daryl's heart. Without a second thought, Daryl rid himself of his clothes.

You sat up in the tub, allowing room for Daryl to slide in behind you. It was strange for the both of you, being so close, so intimate. You let yourself settle into his body, as stiff as you both might be in this moment.

You rested your head back onto his shoulder, soaking in this rare moment between the two of you.

"Y/N... We should t-"

You shake your head, quickly shushing him.

"We do." You agree with him. "But not right now. Just want to enjoy this."

Daryl hums lowly, before allowing his body to relax. With unsureness, his hands wrap around you, landing on your stomach and pulling you close to him.

This is the closest the two of you have been in months, yet it still felt like you were miles apart.

[thewalkingthread]

Space - D.D.

daryl's pov

pairing: daryl dixon x reader

summary: things aren't the same between you and daryl.

warnings: sad

a/n: Heard a devastating song on Tiktok and it inspired this little one shot

You can't remember the last time Daryl held you while you slept. Or the last time he whispered sweet nothings into your ear as you drifted off to sleep.

Something shifted in your relationship around the time Michonne left. You chalked it up to him having more responsibility. Daryl's always put a lot of pressure on himself, but it was a lot worse this time around. With Michonne and Rick gone, the people have looked upon the two of your for guidance and leadership. Not to mention taking in RJ and Judith. There was a big shift in your life, but you didn't expect it to create a rift between you and Daryl.

Every night you would laid down on the bed, your body turned to it's side. Your hand always reached out and rested on the empty space that Daryl will occupy much later in the night. You never went to bed at the same time anymore. Typically, you'd go to bed first once the kids were asleep and the house was clean. Daryl would sit outside on the porch, smoking a cigarette or sharpening knives. No matter how tired he was, he'd do anything that make sure you were asleep first before he tiptoed into the bedroom to get ready for bed. Sometimes you'd pretend to be asleep, you've gotten really good at it.

You would lay completely still, keeping your breathes at a calm and slow pace. You'd listen carefully as he hummed to himself in the bathroom, the sound of his toothbrush tapping against the sink, his deep sighs as he examined himself in the mirror. You knew his routine all too well from the years you've been together.

Then he'd slowly sink into the bed, careful not to wake you. It wasn't a sweet gesture of him wanting you to rest and get good sleep. He didn't want to wake you because he didn't want to talk to you, he didn't want to argue.

Just like clock work, Daryl woke up extra early today. He slipped out of bed before the sun even peaked onto the horizon. The sound of the shower turning on woke you up. You couldn't stop yourself from scooting closer to his side of the bed, pulling his pillow close to you. You close your eyes, trying to imagine it was him you were holding. Your fingers grazed the sheets, hoping it would provide you any sort of resemblance of your lover. It didn't.

The sound of the bathroom door creaking, makes your freeze in your place. The soft pads of his footsteps approach the edge of the bed. You know he's right behind you, you know he's looking down at your "sleeping" body.

You feel his finger graze your skin and you do everything in your power to be still, not to flinch at his touch, not even twitch. Daryl gently moves a strand of hair out of your face. Your heart is racing inside of your chest and you think he might even press a kiss to your head.

All that he does is breathe out a deep sigh before retracting his hand. Your skin, where his calloused hands just were, now exposed to the cold air. His footsteps shift away before disappearing down the hall.

You let out a breathe you didn't realize you were holding and you opened your eyes. The sun just started it's ascent and the room was a soft yellow tint as the light snuck its way through the window.

You wanted to cry.

You wanted to scream.

How did you go from real love to roommates?

You wanted your lover back. You wanted your Daryl back.

You missed the nights when you and Daryl would stay up late talking. You'd sit on the porch, looking up at the stars in the sky. Neither one of you cared if you had to be up early for a watch shift or for a supply run. You'd stay up to talk and spend time with each other because that was the only time you'd be able to.

"Reckon this shit will ever end?"

You glanced up at him before looking back out at the dark sky. You shook your head.

"Don't think so." You mumbled. "But if it weren't for all this shit... I don't think we'd have met."

Daryl let out a grunt, with a small nod of his head. "I suppose that makes it all worth it." He mumbles, pressing his lips to the side of your head. "You make it all worth it."

You grip his pillow close to your chest, letting the tears slip from your eyes.

When did this bed get so wide?

[thewalkingthread]

I Do - R.G.

pairing: rick grimes x f!reader

summary: you and rick finally tie the knot

warnings: fluff, rick's a softie, implied smut but no actual smut

a/n: might be doing one for Daryl too if it's wanted! not proofread

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm and golden glow over the Alexandria Safe-Zone. It was a day unlike any other, a day filled with hope and celebration, a day that you had been waiting for a long time – your wedding day.

You never thought you'd get married in general. Then the world fell apart and the door was slammed completely shut with the key tossed into the ocean. You never could've imagined getting married in what the world has become. Especially to Rick Grimes.

As the community bustled with preparations, you stood in front of a full-length mirror in your simple yet elegant white dress. As silly as it sounds, you went on multiple runs with Maggie and Daryl to find a dress you liked. It sounds stupid really, the world is infested with walkers and you're out looking for a wedding dress. Nevertheless, everyone insisted that you find a dress that makes you feel special. Dead world or not, you're getting married and they wanted it to be perfect for you and Rick.

Your heart raced with anticipation, your hands trembling with a mix of nerves and excitement. Maggie stood behind you, combing through your hair and pinning it back.

"You really do look beautiful, hon." Maggie smiled, at you through the mirror.

In another part of Alexandria, Rick was dressed in a suit, straightening his tie with a determined expression. The weight of his responsibility as the leader of their community had never been greater, but today, it was all about the love he shared with you. Nothing else mattered.

As the time approached, you made your way to the makeshift outdoor altar, where their friends and fellow survivors had gathered. The sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air, and the atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and joy.

You saw him before he saw you. Carl was by your side, your arm looped through his as you held a makeshift bouquet of wildflowers. The chatter died down when the crowd noticed you approaching. You let out an awkward chuckle. You've been leading this community with Rick, you've spoken to every single one of these people. Yet their gaze on you left you shifting uncomfortably in your spot.

Carl's hand lands on yours. "It's okay. If you fall, I'll make sure to fall harder." He teases, offering me some reassurance.

When Rick locks eyes with you, he is utterly captivated. You walked down the aisle with as steadily as you can, your eyes locked onto his. The love that passed between you was palpable, a connection that had survived the darkest of days. Everyone could feel it. Rick's eyes watered as you started the trek towards him. You could tell he was trying his best to fight it, but you noticed the quiver in his lips and the way he wiped his eyes as quickly as possible.

You reached the end of the aisle, Carl handing you off to his father, he kisses your cheek and shakes hands with his dad, a sight that causes the audience to chuckle amongst themselves.

Rick grasps yours hands in his, giving them a squeeze as he looks you up and down. "Absolutely stunning." He whispers, loud enough for you to hear.

As you stood before Gabe, you and Rick exchanged your vows, promises of love and support that had grown stronger through the trials and tribulations you had faced together. Your friends watched with smiles and teary eyes, grateful for this moment of happiness in a world so often plagued by despair.

The exchange of rings sealed your commitment, and Gabe smiled, "By the power vested in me and in the presence of your friends and family, I now pronounce you husband and wife."

Rick sealed your union with a passionate kiss, swooping your body close to him as his lips molded against yours. Cheers and applause erupted from the crowd.

The celebration continued well into the night, with music, dancing, and a feast prepared by the members of Alexandria. It was a day of joy, unity, and a reminder that love could still flourish in the darkest of times.

Music played through speakers as people enjoyed themselves. Couples and friends gathered on the dance floor, surrounding you and Rick as you swayed to the slow song.

You looked up at Rick with an abundance of love in your eyes. Your hand clasped onto his with his other hand holding you close on the small of your back.

"Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight, Mrs. Grimes?" Rick's voice is low, his lips stay hovering over yours as you swayed.

"You have," You nod. "But say it again." You smile.

"You look beautiful," He hums, rubbing the tip of his nose against yours.

"The other part." You insist. Rick raises an eyebrow.

"Mrs. Grimes?" He questions. You smile, pressing your lips against his.

"Don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing it." You bite your lip.

A smile spreads on Rick's face. "Don't think I'll e'er get tired of sayin it," He agrees.

His eyes linger at the crowd, people were getting drunk. Daryl had found a bunch of alcohol on his last run. Normally we wouldn't bother to bring it back, but apparently a wedding calls for all the alcohol.

"Think they'll notice if we sneak off?" He whispers against your ear. "You look amazing in this dress but it's taking everything in me not to rip it off of you right now." He grunts.

Your thighs squeeze together at his words, glancing around. You shake your head, "Let's get out of here." Your tugging on his hand instantly, leading him off the dance floor and towards the houses.

You pass Michonne and Daryl on the way. They both raise their beer glasses up to you, knowing exactly where it is you're about to run off to.

"Better not have meh runnin for formula in 9 months!" Daryl hollers after you two. You both send him a middle finger before running off towards your house.

His hands are on you the moment the front door slams shut. He's unzipping your dress, shoving it down your body as fast as he can.

"Should-" He kisses you between words. "Pick it-" Kiss. "Up." Kiss. "Carl wi-"

"Carl and Judith's staying at Daryl's tonight. He knows better than to sleep here on our wedding night." Rick grunt's. His hands grip the back of your thighs before hoisting you up, you wrap your legs around his waist as he kisses on your chest, clumsily making his way up the stairs to your bedroom.

"Careful, cowboy." You giggle as he stumbles on a few steps. He tosses you on the bed, immediately undoing his tie as he admires your naked body.

"How'd I get so lucky?" He hums.

You smile, "Come show me how lucky you are."

Rick falls on top of you, his arms on either side of you, holding him up. "Oh I plan to. Hope you've got enough energy. You're not going to be getting much sleep tonight, darlin."

[thewalkingthread]

"I've been thinking" - D.D.

pairing: daryl dixon x f!reader

summary: After witnessing how good Daryl takes care of Judith and RJ, you think it's about time y'all have one of your own.

warning: fluff

a/n: I love soft Daryl.

You and Daryl had been through more than your fair share of hardships, having faced the trials of the apocalypse together. Your bond had only grown stronger over the years, and now, after the war in Commonwealth settled, you and your community found a place to call home. Despite the chaos of the world outside, you had finally had a semblance of peace and security among friends, new and old. Hell- you guys even had a dog now.

It was sunny today, Judith and RJ ran around on the street with some of the other kids. They screamed and hollered as they played tag, a heart melting smile spread across their faces. Just kids being kids.

You and Daryl sat on the front porch of your house with Dog. Daryl's crossbow rested against the wall as he sharpened the points of his arrows. You watched the kids, you had a smile that mirrored their contagious ones.

"You okay?" Daryl asked, his voice soft, he glanced at you briefly before he continued to work on his arrows.

You nod your head, your eyes still fixated on the kids. "I've been thinking,"

"That can't be good," Daryl scoffed, teasingly. You roll your eyes, reaching over and bumping his shoulder with your fist. "Bout wha?" He asks.

You shrug your shoulders, glancing down at the glass of water in your hands. "The future." You said simply.

Daryl looked up, curiosity evident in his stormy blue eyes. "The future, huh? What's on your mind?" He placed the arrow on the table, giving you his undivided attention.

"Well," You began, a faint blush coloring their cheeks, "I've been thinking about this for a while, but it never seemed like the right time. I mean these past few years have been so... crazy." You wince.

"But now, everything feels right. We're safe. Here, in commonwealth. The kids are safe here, we've got something good going. Something real." You hated saying it, knowing you felt the exact same way with the prison, with Alexandria. I don't think anywhere in this world would ever be safe, but here felt like it.

"We've been dealt some shitty cards. With Rick and Michonne gone, we've basically been given all their responsibility. I know we have to lead these people. I know we have to keep Jude and RJ safe. But I can't help but notice how great you are with Judith and RJ. You're a natural, Daryl. We take care of them like they're our own and-" Your voice trails off, losing the confidence to finish.

"Spit it out, woman." He grunts, staring into your eyes knowingly.

"I want to expand our family... Have one of our own?" You raise an eyebrow, "I wouldn't mind a little Dixon running around."

Daryl paused, his hands grasping yours. He looked at you with the softest eyes, his heart swelling with love and tenderness. "You serious?"

You nodded, your eyes never leaving his. "Yeah, Daryl. I am. I think we're ready. I mean you're obviously going to be one hell of a dad."

Daryl's rough exterior couldn't hide the softness that your words had brought out in him. He scooted closer to you, holding both of your hands tightly in his. "You really think that?"

You smiled, your love for Daryl shining in your eyes. You've been with Daryl from the beginning. Him and Merle found you alone in a convenient store the day everything went to shit. After months of pining over each other you finally bit the bullet at the prison and made it official. Though the two of you been through hell the past 10 years you're here, together.

"Absolutely. I've seen the way you protect and care for those kids, the way you take care of me. It makes my heart ache with how much I love you. We're building something here. I want to start a family with you."

Daryl leaned in, capturing your lips with a tender kiss. It felt just like it did the first time all those years ago. "I love you too, Y/N. Let's do it. We'll make it work, no matter what. Us against the world. The way it's always been."

His arms wrapped around your body and pulled your close to him.

"Are you two okay?" Judith's voice caused the two of you to pull away from each other. Her eyebrow was raised suspiciously at you two. You and Daryl both burst into a fit of chuckles.

"How would you feel helping Auntie Y/N out with a baby?" Daryl's voice was scuffed. Judith's eyes just about popped out as she jumped into y'alls lap.

"Yes, yes, yes!" She cheered. "About time!" She laughed. Dog barked, oblivious to what was happening but happy to see everyone happy.

You and Daryl exchanged amused glances. Deep down inside you both knew you'd be okay. Whatever happened next, you'd handle it together.

[thewalkingthread]

Requests are open!

Feel free to drop some requests for any character from TWD ♡

[thewalkingthread]

"He's Mine" - R.G.

pairing: rick grimes x f!reader

summary: s4 ep16. Joe's group finds you in the woods. reader is the one targeted instead of Carl

warnings: cursing, angst, mentions of sexual assault, blood, gore

a/n: this scene is my Roman Empire

You were tired, exhausted from the day's journey. It's been three days since the attack at the prison. Three days since you've seen most of your family. You were lucky enough to have found Rick and Carl after everything went down, even luckier when Michonne came knocking on the front door of the house you were hiding out in.

It was nighttime now, you sat in the front seat of a rundown truck while Carl laid down in the backseat. It was unlikely that you'd get much sleep being so vulnerable in the open right now but Rick and Michonne insisted that you get some rest.

Your eyes stayed on the pair as they sat on a log off the side of the road. Every so often Rick would look into the truck, his eyes locking on yours before he returned back to his conversation with Michonne.

Things with Rick has always been a bit confusing for the both of you. It was clear from the moment you met that there was something there between you. Of course, nothing ever came out of it. He was married and desperately trying to fix the brokenness in his family.

Now that Lori has passed, it's been even weirder. Neither one of you wanted to make the first move and burst the safety bubble you were in, in terms of friendship. Nonetheless, you both knew you cared for one another deeply.

Your eyes dart to the woods when you see movement. Your heart drops as you see a few men creeping in the trees, eyes directly on Rick and Michonne. You knew what was about to happen. You weighed your options. You could scream and warn them, but you had no idea how many of them there were, nor do you know their intentions.

You guys are incredibly unarmed, nothing good would come out of this.

"Carl." You mumble quietly, trying not to make it obvious that you weren't alone in the truck. You have no idea how many of them are our there, no idea how many people were looking at you right now.

Carl stirred and grumbled slightly at your call, you shush him immediately.

"Carl, I need you to very slowly and quietly lay down on the floor of the truck. Keep the blanket over you completely." You mumble. "There are people surrounding us. I need you to hide until me or your dad tell you to come out. Do you understand me?" Your heart raced as you saw the men creep out from the treeline.

Carl quietly did what you said. "Y/N? What's happening?" He was scared. Carl tries his best to keep up with his dad and be a man, but he's still just a boy. It's a scary world now.

"Everything will be okay. Stay hidden, no matter what you hear, okay? Promise me." Your breathe hitched.

"I promise."

That was the last thing he said before one of the men shoved his gun against Rick's temple. You jumped in your seat as another man smacked on the window next to you. You tried your best to avoid glancing back at Carl.

The man grinned at you through the mirror, the creepiest grin you've ever seen. You couldn't hear what the other men were saying to Rick, but eventually a few more men came into view.

The creep tapped on the window, licking his lips as he stared.

Daryl strolled up to the group, it looked like they knew each other?

"Joe!" Daryl yelled, giving a name to the mystery man. You could tell he was trying to talk down the man that held a gun to Rick's head. It looked like whatever Daryl was saying was working, the man still held his gun against Rick but it looked like he was thinking about what Daryl was saying. All hope and relief you felt when your eyes met his vanished when two men grabbed Daryl, punching and kicking him.

Your heart drops as the other man throws Michonne to the ground. The door of the truck swings open and you pray that Carl is brave enough to be silent.

The man grabs you roughly, pulling you out of the truck before patting you down and throwing your pocket knife a few feet away. You fought to wiggle out of his grip but he pushed you against the ground faster than you could blink.

"Shhh.." He says into your ear. "We're gonna have some fun, sweets."

"Leave her be!" You could hear Rick yell over all the commotion. The grunts of Daryl filled your ears as he got punched and kicked only a few feet away from you.

The man on top of you was chuckling as you tried to fight him off, clawing at him and squirming to get out from underneath him.

"Listen, it was me. It was just me." Rick grumbles to Joe.

"See, now that's right. That's not some damn lie." Joe chuckles. "Look, we can settle this. We're reasonable men."

"Get off of me you sick bastard!" You shout, spitting at the man. His hands found it's way to your chest and you screamed as he touched you.

"First, we're going to beat Daryl to death. Then the girl. Then when Dan finishes having his fun with that one over there, we'll all have a turn." The smugness in his voice was deafening.

"Then I'm going to shoot you and then we'll be square." Laughter leaves Joe's body.

"Let her go." Rick says again, as your being turned onto your stomach.

You wanted to cry as Dan pressed your face into the dirt. The pain was forgotten as the sound of his belt buckle clanking rang through your ears.

"This is going to be a whole lot worse for you if you don't stop fighting." Dan grunts into your ear, pressing against your butt. Sobs begin to leave your mouth as reality of what was about to happen sets in.

There was no hope.

The man tugs at your jeans, trying to pull them down.

A gun fires. Everyone seems to pause for a moment. Dan stops for a moment and you take the opportunity to look up, praying that none of you were hit by the bullet.

You see Rick take a swing at Joe before Joe hits him right back, knocking him to the ground. Dan immediately goes back to what he was doing, trying to rip your clothes off of you. You reach for you pocket knife that was just out of reach.

Your cries filled at air when Dan pins you down once again.

"What the hell are you gonna do now, sport?"

Then a squelching sound fills the air before a body thuds to the ground. This time everyone freezes in surprise. You look back at Rick to see him completely covered in blood from his nose to his chest. He spits out blood and skin and your eyes fall onto Joe's limp body on the ground, blood gushing out of his throat.

Fuck.

Michonne doesn't waste a beat as she grabs a gun and shoots the guy holding her before taking out the ones that held Daryl.

Dan is on his feet in seconds once he realizes he's the only one left. He pulls you up, pressing against you as he holds a knife to your throat.

"I'll kill her. I'll- I'll kill her!" He shouts as Michonne points the gun at him.

"Let her go!" She demands.

Rick pulls a knife out of Joe, standing up and balancing himself. His eyes lock onto Dan, it was almost like he had tunnel vision. He pants.

"He's mine."

Rick takes a few strides towards you and you feel Dan's grip on you loosen as he's consumed with fear. He pushes you forward, staring to beg Rick for mercy.

Daryl catches you from hitting the ground as you watch Rick stab Dan over and over again. Michonne stands by you, trying to block your view of the slaughter.

"Carl." You whisper, realizing that he was still tucked inside the truck. "C-carl." You wiggle out of Daryl's grip, running to the truck and swinging the back door open.

You could see Carl's figure shaking underneath the blanket. "Carl." You say again. "Come on out, it's okay." You whisper. Slowly he peaks his head out, once his eyes meet yours, his body instantly relaxes and he's pushing himself off the ground and throwing himself into your arms.

You, Carl and Michonne stayed in the truck for the rest of the night while Daryl and Rick stayed outside. Nobody talked. Rick looked to be in his head.

Carl laid on across the back seat, his head resting on my lap. You tried to lull him to sleep but it was clear that nobody would be getting a blink of sleep after what just played out.

When the sun started to rise you asked Michonne to take your place, not wanting Carl to be alone. Daryl had gone out to scout the area.

You poured some water onto a clothe and sat down in front of Rick, settled between his legs but leaving enough space to make it appropriate.

His eyes flickered to yours as you wiped the blood off his face.

“Should’ve saved the water.” His voice was hoarse. You shook your head, trying your best to clean him.

“He shouldn’t see you like this.” You say calmly, wiping his hands clean once his face and neck were clean. Rick watched you intently.

“Are you okay?” His voice softens as he asks. You clear your throat, flashbacks of last night playing through your head. Ricks clean hand reaches up and his thumb rubs your cheek softly.

You were able to catch sight of your face in the car mirrors. Red scuff marks littered your face where you were pressed into the ground.

“I’m okay, it’s not that bad.” You shrug. Rick stared into your eyes, his hands still holding your face.

“Are you okay?” He asks again, really holding your gaze. Your chest tightens and you know you won’t be able to fight the tears.

Rick let’s go of your face but pulls your body into his immediately. You let the tears fall as he held you. “I’m so sorry.” He whispered in your ear. “I will never let anything happen to you. Ever.” He kept apologizing, his voice cracking every so often.

“You’re safe.” He says. “You’re safe with me.”

And you knew that he was telling the truth.