Aspiring writer just looking to unload my creativity

Through your long walk throughout the backwoods of Hawkins you’ve all finally made it to Forest Hills to Max’s place. You’ve been making small glances at the girl periodically since everyone has grouped back up. You’ve always had a sixth sense when it came to feeling out peoples emotions even if they try & mask them and she’s definitely putting up a wall because you can start to see it beginning to crack the small lost dazed looks & the instances where you can tell she’s afraid. Shit you’re all scared but her & Eddie have the most to lose out of everyone right now so you know just as well as the others that you have to be strong. Wishing El was there you recall all the stories Dustin’s told you of her you always thought they were made up but to know they’re real & she’s real is giving you the hope you need to pull through. At Max’s place you all come up with a game plan to goto the army plus store just outside of town “The War Zone” but how to get Eddie there without being seen had your palms sweating until you see his eyes shoot up towards max like he’s got it all figured out after promising a way there knowing his van can’t be used & there’s no nearby car “Hey red you got a ski mask… bandanna… somethin’ like that?” Max looks at everyone making a questionable expression before darting off to her bedroom where she hands Eddie something that definitely has a lot of hair just as much as him but not as beautiful more like electrocuted looking just then he pulls it over his face for you to see it’s a Michael Myers mask having you giggle “Okay sweetheart round the troops time to blow this pop stand” he swings open the door hunched over hiding behind just about every guiding you all across the trailer park. Making your way towards an older couple out having a few beers you see Eddie heading towards their rv & sliding over its window “Eddie are you crazy!” You whisper yell “only about you Princess here I’ll boost you, mayfield & the ladies up first” holding his hands out for you to step in you leap into his palms & into the window “holy shit it’s musty in here” you mumble as you stumble to the front finding your footing by the time you turn around Eddie is making his way through the window “Well that was suffocating” you shake your head & smirk. Everyone piled in Eddie heads towards the drivers seat with Steve right on his tail he watches Eddie with curiosity as “where’d you learn how to do that man?” Eddie chucked “well while other Dads were teaching their kids how to fish or play ball my Dad taught me how to hot wire. Now I swore to myself I wouldn’t wind up like he did but I’m wanted for murder & soon grand theft auto… so I’m really livin’ up to that Munson name” You shake your head knowing he’s not the slightest like his father & right when you’re about to tell him Robin starts stumbling towards the front “Uh Eddie I’m not sure I love the idea of you driving” she says with fear in her voice “oh… I’m just startin’ the sucker Harrington’s gotter don’t ya big boy” Eddie winks giving Steve a cheeky smile as you cover your mouth trying to bite back the laughter as Steve looks at Eddie confused before hopping in the seat when Eddie starts up the Rv. Just as he puts it into gear the old couple that owns the vehicle begin banging on the door cursing beyond belief booting at the sides as Steve turns back towards everyone “Everyone hang onto something!!!” He screams you look at Eddie bug eyed as Lucas speeds past you with max in tow “oh my god oh my god oh my god!!” Lucas yells as he plops on the bench in the back gripping onto the table with one hand and max with the other Eddie on the other hand is standing on top of the kitchen counter perched like a bird banging his head as everyone begins falling all over the place and the couple still screaming outside Dustin is screaming Robin is having a panic attack and you’re still trying to find something to hold onto Eddie eventually stops to check on you seeing you falling all over “Woah there beautiful be careful here” he lifts you up sitting you onto the countertop

The sound of a hawk flying overhead is the sound you’re woken up to. Sight slightly blurred as your vision tries to adjust to the bright sun cast upon your face. You feel something covering you only to discover it’s Eddie’s jacket he must’ve used it to cover you during the night. But as you start to look around you notice Eddie’s nowhere to be found. You start to worry but then try to think logically, maybe he went to the bathroom or something so you sit and wait for a little while. You’re not sure how much time has gone by but it definitely feels way too long so panic begins to set in. What if Jason found him while going to the bathroom at some point during the night, some crazy Bible thumping Hick, or the police. Your heart starts pounding to the point you can feel your pulse going 100 miles a minute especially when you hear something rustling off into the distance. Is it a wild animal or someone out here clearly trying to hunt him down. You whip your head around as the sound becomes closer now sounding more like the footsteps of someone running having you stand up straight like a pin afraid for whatever’s coming. “Shit!!” Eddie skids towards you slipping in a bit of mud “oh sweetheart I’m so sorry are you crying? I didn’t mean to scare you I promise i didn’t want to wake you. I heard some construction vehicles when I went to take a leak so….” He whips out a walkie “I snagged us this sucker off those assholes now we have something to get a hold of Dustin with” you finally let go of the breath you’ve been holding in for definitely longer than you should’ve getting a little dizzy “okay… okay good we need to figure out the plan & I need to get us some food i don’t feel so well right now” he comes to wrap his arms around you “it’s okay we’re gonna figure this shit out but first we get you some food are you okay?” You sigh “Yeah… just nauseated and feel light headed” he nods “okay yeah we need to get some food in you I don’t need you passing out on me out here if you’re sugar is too low”. Eddie was the only person who knew of your hypoglycemia basically the opposite of diabetes where your body doesn’t make enough glucose. Usually you have your purse filled with emergency snacks and hard candy but you left that when you both ran from the boathouse. “Dustin this is Eddie do you copy?”

You’re both snuggled together up against the backend of skull rock Eddie trying to keep your mind busy until everyone gets there. He starts thinking of everything you, with all that’s been going on his hasn’t really had the time to drink you in like normally & he’s starting to feel terrible that you’re out here hiding with him during a hick town witch-hunt but knows your love for him will keep you firmly planted beside him & no words could make you feel, say or do any differently. “Hey… remember in the 5th grade when I was upset with you for a whole week?” You lift your head off of his chest to look up into his eyes “Yeah but you never told me why we just went back to things as normal.. why were you so upset?” He runs his hands through his hair and chuckles “uh it’s gonna sound pretty stupid now… but I saw Carver push you on the swings & next thing I knew you were giggling at him and… it just hurt in a way I didn’t really understand then.. all I knew was he was making you laugh, you my y/n… and he’s always been such a dick you’re just too sweet for him… well anyone’s too sweet for him but still you’ve always been my y/n always will be” as heartwarming as his words are you start to laugh. Your response has him looking at you like you’re insane “oh Eddie hun” you’re full on belly laughing now “Eddie he was trying to ask me to the dance that day & i laughed in his face he was pushing me on the swing I guess his at the time way of trying to talk to girls have no clue but i laughed at him and he called me a freak and left”. Eddie’s face goes from shock to a full on grin “I’d never eddie you’ve always had your own special space in my heart and that’s where you’ll always be.. through fire and ice id endure it all if I know you’re with me or at the end of it all…” smiling he wraps his arms around you as tightly as he possibly could “I love you sweetheart” he whispers into the shell of your ear causing chills to run down your spine “I love you too Eddie” nuzzling your head back into his chest trying to stay calm as you wait for everyone.

Some time goes by & you both hear some commotion coming towards your direction in full panic & just out of purely being careful you both hide on the top of the huge rock. Heart pounding and hand over your mouth just in case you breathe too loud. You then hear boys arguing “Bada bing bada boom there she is Henderson in your face man in your stupid cocky little face” Dustin looking confused turns “It doesn’t make sense” Steve irritated “Yeah yeah even when it’s staring you right in the face, you can’t admit it you just can’t admit when you’re wrong you little Butthead” Eddie wearing a shit eating grin nods towards the group you & him had this way of talking without words and only facial expression so you agree knowing he’s about to jump down in front of everyone. Holding your hand your brace yourself to leap to the ground in a large thud causing everyone to whip their heads in your direction “I concur you Dustin Henderson are a total Butthead” making you giggle. Dustin sprints over to Eddie & you wrapping Eddie in a hug first then you “Jesus we thought you guys were goners” “yeah me too” Eddie replies. Dustin & everyone had figured out that an electromagnetic field had been tampering with his compass & the only way that could happen is if something strong enough could deflect the magnet beings there’s some sort of gate nearby that needs to be found in order for us to find out where Vecna is & now there’s a third victim & apparently Max is on his list that poor girl your heart breaks there’s just so much at stake you need to do everything in your power to help. Walking through the woods you all start following the compass needle in the direction of the gate your mind starts to wander “Hey sweetheart.. what’s going on in that pretty head of yours hmm??” Eddie asks you slowly slip your hand into his making him smile as you squeeze three times “Remember two summers ago when there was the big Fourth of July party but all the local jerks were littered all over totally ruining it for the rest of us so we had a bbq at yours instead?” He nods “yeah I remember that we had a ball” you laugh “yeah Gareth burned all the food, you kept hitting all of us with water balloons & I scored us some beers but that wasn’t my favorite part” Eddie looking at you confused “what was your favorite part?” You smile “when everyone left & the both of us took a blanket on the roof to get a better view of the fireworks…. just sitting up there in our own bubble on top of the world… i just wish we could’ve stayed there forever ya know?…”

The night was peaceful & you’re woken up by the warmth of the sun shining through the window. You sit up stretching out your arms & legs with a huge yawn before rubbing the sleep from your eyes then turning to look at Eddie. How handsome he looked with his coffee colored hair tussled across the pillow & his freckles across his cheeks like tiny fairy kisses & his rosey cheeks. You lean over to press a kiss against his forehead brushing his hair from his face. His eyes fluttered open “Well that’s quite the beautiful sight to see first thing” he says with a cheeky smile you roll your eyes & giggle “Good morning to you too spazzy”. His eyebrows shoot upward “wow you haven’t called me that since the 10th grade” you roll over laughing “your fault for taking the drum sticks off the band teacher & having a looney attack on the large drums” you cackle “he was so pissed all to get them to leave early so we could use the room for our campaign” he’s laughing too “hey it worked didn’t it?” You nod “indeed it did clever & handsome” he blushes “oh hush”. Next thing you know the sound of the door bursting open scares the both of you half to death only to see the group lean their heads inside “Delivery service” yells Dustin Steve shaking his head grinning & Dustin not even thinking twice before plopping down next to the two of you. Steve steps forward nudging Dustin to talk “Okay?… Good news or bad news first?” Dustin asks you both “Always bad first” replies Eddie as you open the food they brought for you guys handing Eddie something to drink as he dives into a box of dry honey combs & you shake your head at him “okay well bad news is we tapped into Hawkins pd with our cerebro and they’re definitely looking for you… also they’re pretty convinced you killed Chrissy” “like 100% kinda convinced” added Max “And the good news?” You ask “well his name hasn’t gone public yet but if we found out about you it’s only a matter of time before others do too and once that gets out everyone and their shallow minded mother is gonna be gunning for you” Robin says “Hunt the Freak right?” Eddie says “Exactly” Robin adds “Shit!” You yell in frustration. Dustin perks up “So before that happens we need to find Vecna kill him and prove your innocence” “that’s all Dustin? That’s all??” Dustin nods “Yeah that’s pretty much it” Robin huffs “Look you two I know everything Dustin is saying sounds pretty delusional but we’ve actually been through this kind of thing before I mean they have a few times and uh and I have once but mines was more human flesh based and there’s was more smoke related but bottom line is collectively I really feel like we got this” she finishes. Steve steps forward “See we usually rely on this girl that has superpowers but those went bye bye so we’re kind in a uhh” “brainstorming faze” max says helping Steve finish his sentence. You stand up fixing your Dio shirt clothes twisted from your sleep & look to everyone “Well whatever it is you guys are planning or thinking it’s time to make a plan as a whole because if not & vecna really is out there we need one hell of an idea to take out a creature of that stature” as you finish your sentence the sound of wild sirens blasts by the property making you all jolt “Shit!!! TARP TARP!!!!” Yell you and Robin covering Eddie completely before all bolting to try and get a glimpse of where they’re going. Steve turns to you “Y/n we’ll go track them see where they’re going you can stay with him just in case” Dustin runs over feet skidding across the gravel towards you “Here take this walkie if they’re headed in your direction we’ll call in a code red so you can find another spot to hide & we’ll meet up later” you nod “Thank you… for everything really” he smiles “you’re part of the party now no need for thanks but… you’re welcome” you put your hand on his shoulder “stay safe & Godspeed” he salutes before Steve starts yelling “Henderson lets go!!!”. He starts towards the car sprinting “Christ I’m coming don’t get your undies in a knot” jumping in the backseat and slamming the door.

It’s been awhile no calls from the others yet as the sun starts to go down night falling upon you both again. You had Eddie stay hidden inside the boathouse just in case. With today you couldn’t be too careful, making you both something to eat & an extra blanket for cushion for the night. You come back with everything and set it all on some milk crates that were in the corner. Eddie’s been quiet & you can tell he’s worried & afraid just by his facial expressions “Come on handsome you have to eat something you only had one decent meal in days… please for me??.” He looks up & you feel him really looking at you as if he’s trying to memorize every part of your face like he’s afraid to forget. Then shaking it off like a wet dog he shakes his head & then looks up again & smiles “okay princess for you I’d do anything”. You both finished your meal but much more quieter than yesterday you pull out the deck of cards & wave them silently asking if he wanted to play without hesitation he scoots right over to you with a crate to use for a table while your begin to shuffle the cards. Just as you’re getting ready to deal you hear some distant noise the sound of thudding & muffled voices. You & Eddie whip to each other wide eyes hearts pounding before you both quickly slink over to the window to peek & see what’s out there. You see lights on inside Ricks you know you didn’t turn on because you both have been using the lantern to bring less attention to the property you look up to see someone’s silhouette in the upstairs bedroom making you both completely on edge Eddie panicked you grab the walkie out ripping up the antenna & turning it on “Dustin it’s y/n! Dustin can you hear me hello it’s an emergency please answer!” You begin to panic “never mind kid” you grab Eddie by his jacket and yank him toward the boat “start paddling when I say go” he looks at you like your crazy but gets in the boat all the same grabbing your hand firmly making you look at him for a moment “Listen if anything bad happens you run you hear me? You run & you don’t look back I love you & you’re not getting hurt or in deep shit because of me” you cup his face “I’m not running anywhere I’d bring hell to its knees for you & you know damn well when I wake up feet touching the floor in the morning it’s Satan himself saying oh shit she’s awake, I love you too so let’s do this thing until the wheels fall off” smiling at him eyes watering he brings you in for a kiss. “Okay let’s get this baby moving before whoever is out there sees us in here” he quietly pushes the doors open to the lake as you use your oar to push off the dock “ready go” you whisper as you both start slowly moving in unison just about the quarter of the way out you hear footsteps making your heart pound “HEY FREAK!!!” You whip your head only to see nobody other than Jason Carver the kid who couldn’t have you one of many reasons he tormented Eddie besides Eddie being different. You both begin to panic as Jason & his friend begin to jump into the water making a beeline for the boat Eddie rushes into action trying to get the motor started pulling the chain as hard as he possibly could. Getting frustrated it wasn’t starting he kept at it pulling even harder “Come!! On!!! Stupid piece of shit!! Come on help me out here man!!” As he pulls repeatedly “what do you want me to do?!” You ask “no I got it!!” He’s still pulling as they swim closer & closer “Come on you piece of shit!!!” Eddie grunts in aggravation “God damn it!!!! No?! Okay?!l” He jumps back into the front “paddle y/n go!” You both move as fast as you can as the boys grow increasingly closer to you both. Eddie gets aggravated standing up with his oar they’re too close to you for his liking “Hey stay back man!!!! Stay back!!!” Jason’s friend floating there still like a dingy as Jason grows angry “Come on man let’s go we almost have him!! Hey Patrick!! Patrick!l PATRICK?!” You’re frozen watching it all happen like a bad car accident now standing yourself when suddenly Patrick’s body shoots into the air like a bottle rocket

After awhile of calming him down enough to speak Eddie walks you all through the events that happened that night. That he had ran into Chrissy in the woods during his study hall class he was skipping to go finish the night’s campaign. How she had looked afraid and something seemed off she was on edge & looking for something to calm her rattling nerves. He told you all how he couldn’t find his stash at first but when he finally did Chrissy seemed to be in a trance like state not hearing a single word he said. And how her body floated upwards and shot towards the ceiling and her bones snapping and something pulled her eyes inside of her face. The story had your entire body covered in goosebumps sounding like a summer camp ghost story. Eddie looks to everyone “you all think I’m crazy right? He huffs Dustin speaks “no we don’t”. Eddie snaps “Look don’t bullshit me man I know how this sounds!!!” Max steps forward “we all know you’re not crazy” “We believe you” Robin chimes in as you’re still trying to process everything. Dustin kneels down in front of you both “Look what I’m about to tell you both might be a little difficult to take” you & Eddie turn to each other then look back “okay?” You both say in unison. “You know how people say Hawkins is…. cursed??. They’re not way off…” you’re both still confused “There’s another world a world hidden beneath Hawkins sometimes…. It bleeds… into ours” Eddie turns to everyone “Like ghosts & shit?” Max replies “There’s some things far worse than ghosts” Dustin continues “These monsters we thought they were gone…. But somehow… they’ve come back before that’s why we’ve had to come find you plus I know y/n looked petrified not knowing where you were” Robin asks “That night did you see anything?” Max chimes in “Dark particles maybe?” Dustin says “It would almost look like dust swirling dust” Eddie gets aggravated “No man there was nothing you could see or uh or uh touch… when i tried to wake her man she… she couldn’t move it was like she was in a trance or something?” “A spell” Dustin says “a curse” Eddie corrects him “Vena’s curse” Dustin says making your blood run cold “who’s vecna?” Asks Steve you look up at him eyes wide in pure fear “An undead creature of great power” “A spell caster” Eddie adds “a dark wizard” Dustin states in disbelief. If Vecna is a real being you’re all screwed you’ve read everything there is to know about d&d & know he’s of great power and no normal human would stand a chance against him. Your heart breaks for Chrissy and her family and for Eddie for having witnessed something so horrific and to be blamed and head hunted on top of it all. You knew you had to figure out some way to help him but for now you know you simply just need to be there for him. After awhile you made a list in your sketchbook and handed it to Robin “I need you & Steve to get these things here’s cash for everything & gas” she nods & the two of them drive off to the store while you stayed back with Dustin & Max with Eddie. “Yn you’re more than welcome to crash at my place if you need somewhere to stay “max said. “thank you but I think I’m going to stay with Eddie” she nods understanding “sweetheart you don’t have to do that” you rest your hand on his shoulder “I’m not leaving you out here by yourself don’t fight me on this you won’t win” he smiles locking his fingers between yours and squeezes your hand as he always does three times your way of saying I love you to each other. They get back with the supplies you requested plus Steve gave you guys some sleeping bags from his car from an old camping trip he took with the kids. Greatful for the extra help everyone starts towards the car to go home for the night. Eddie & Dustin finishing their conversation off to the side both looking at you on & off you wonder what in the world they’re talking about before you have a chance to check Robin is in front of you “It’s been really nice meeting you yn welcome to the group we’ll see you two tomorrow just hang tight we’ll figure out a plan of some sort” she smiles at you.

All your life you’ve lived in Indiana with your Grandmother in Sellersville just next to Hawkins where your best friends and other half live. You, Eddie & Gareth have all known each other since you were toddlers beings all your mothers were high school best friends too. After you lost your mother & Eddie losing his not so long after you two bonded over what that all felt like. Like being lost but still having each other. Throughout the years your friend group grew as corroded coffin emerged and all playing d&d in your grandmothers living room. As time went on and high school started things got busy but you & Eddie remained close & started dating sophomore year. (March 1986)

Something felt off the past few days a gnawing feeling creeping up your spine giving you chills. No answer at Wayne & Eddies for days. You’ve been excited to spend spring break with him but haven’t heard anything from him. After your last shift at work you plop on the couch and turn on the television. “Live in Hawkins Indiana Cheerleader Chrissy Cunningham found deceased in the trailer of this suspect… his name Eddie Munson” you could hear nothing else after that but a loud ringing in your ears as your body runs cold & your heart pounds heavy. You swallow hard and start to gather your things car keys and begin to make your way to Hawkins. Speeding through backroads your adrenaline rushing through your veins as you know in your heart the love of your life wouldn’t hurt a fly. They definitely have it all wrong, you have to find Eddie and if you can’t you know where to start… Gareth.

Making your way through downtown Hawkins towards Gareth’s house your mind is still racing before you know it your in front of Gareth’s house and bolting for the doorbell. As you get to the door you hear commotion in the garage and start towards the noise. It’s everyone but your Eddie. Your eyes wide body shivering “where’s Eddie?” Gareth jumps at your voice “y/n?! Oh my god you’re here! We don’t know where he is but I think I know someone who might”. They’ve all been trying to locate the long hair dungeon master themselves telling you of his young friend Dustin Henderson as you all make your way to his home. Alas nobody was home the boys all went to check hangouts while you went to you & his table in the woods with a cigarette in your hand. Walking through the field you spot two guys walking one much older and a younger boy with a cap on overhearing their conversation Eddie’s name perked your interest. You started to follow them until they turned and noticed you there. The older one spoke first “Can I help you with something? You lost?” You took a deep breath “yeah and no… well I’m looking for my boyfriend but I can’t find him and I heard you guys say his name i figured…” the young boy stepped forward “you know Eddie?” You nod “okay come with us we have a lot to talk about but we can’t do it here” the two walk you to a car and you all go for a drive as they tell you the most wild story you’ve ever heard in your entire life. The young boy turns quickly in the passenger seat towards you with his hand out to shake yours “Dustin by the way, & this is Steve sorry for my friend & i’s rudeness with everything going on i totally forgot to introduce myself… & you are???…” you sigh “y/n…. Eddie’s girlfriend” you shake the young man’s hand and his older friend as you make your way to a video store you know wasn’t here the last time you came to Hawkins. “Come inside we set base of operations here to try and locate Eddie maybe using the video rental system??” As he looks to Steve who know looks more than irritated “yeah yeah to find you’re new great best friend who plays you’re dumb nerd game” as he rolls his eyes. “Yeah.. Hey no I didn’t say that!! And d&d isn’t dumb!” You look to Steve “I love d&d and what’s wrong with being a nerd id rather be that than a pompous asshole” you say as you stomp through the doors Dustin beaming trying to hold back a laugh. You walk to the counter where you see two girls again with an age gap. Dustin runs and hops over the counter knocking over the vhs tapes “dude come on” Steve yells “who’s this?” Says the older girl “hi I’m Robin” she shakes your hand “hi I’m y/n” Dustin yells from his seat facing the other direction “she’s Eddie’s girlfriend” Robin looks puzzled and the younger girl steps forward “hi I’m max I’m Eddie’s neighbor” you shake her hand but notice a sadness in her eyes you can’t quite pinpoint but shake it off for the moment. Skimming the rental system you all find Reefer Rick, Eddie’s connection to all things illegal and decided to try to search there next. All piling into the car you start on your journey to find your boyfriend. Your heart has felt so heavy since you’ve seen the news. You know this isn’t the person you’ve grown up with & want to grow old with. The same person who’d let bugs free he’d find inside the same boy who rescued a puppy from the dumpster and bathed it so you could have a companion when he wasn’t around and simply just because. Your mind drifts to times better spent memories that make your eyes sting with tears, but smile all at once. Before you know it you pull upon a beaten old cabin property that looks close to abandoned making your way through the silent cabin nobody there just evidence of someone who’s definitely eaten something. You call his name with the others as you make your way through the home. Seeing a small boathouse outside you tap Dustin to get his attention & nod towards your discovery. Nodding in agreement he rally’s everyone as you all make your way outside towards the boathouse. Steve & Dustin bickering,

The date of your date came quickly you have the entire house unpacked and decorated making it feel more like a permanent home now the scent of lemon from you cleaning & the smell of your favorite sandalwood candle burning in your bedroom as you steam your dress a tight fit black short bodycon dress with long sleeves with a low cut v neck paired with a pair of chunky black heels and your leather jacket. You jump into the shower using all your favorite scented things. Afterwards curling your hair and teasing your bangs a bit before starting on some heavy black liner and a gray and silver glittered smoky eye paired with a dark blood red lipstick. Going through your jewelry box you pick out your favorite silver small hoops and in your second and third ear holes go your diamond studs from your sweet 16 in your ruby birthstone color and the guitar pick earrings you made yourself last summer with an old family friend. Just as your were spraying on your Chanel number 5 thanks to your aunt and her over the top Christmas gifts you make your way to the door where Gareth stands dressed in what look like brand new black jeans a red button up dress shirt and a black tie with his converse holding a bouquet of red roses and a stuffed Siberian tiger “Wow you look stunning” he says cheeks as red as the flowers in his hands “thanks gare you look absolutely handsome come in” you gesture him inside “these are for you” he smiles “aw thank you and how did you?…” you look at him puzzled “oh hahaha Dustin said you told him that’s you’re favorite animal and I saw it and just couldn’t help myself” he says digging his one toe into the flooring “well she’s gorgeous we’ll have to come up with a name by the end of the night for her” you put the roses in some water and grab your purse “ready pretty girl?” You giggle “yeah let’s blow this popsicle stand” he takes your hand leading outside as you shut & lock up behind yourself “HAVE FUN LOVEBIRDS!!” You both look to see Eddie waiving from his trailer as you both laugh and Gareth opens your door for you before hopping in and starting the car & heading out for a night on the town. It wasn’t a very long ride but a fun one filled with laughs and slight touches fingers brushing or when you’d hit a bump you’d get scared and grab his thigh which he very much enjoyed pulling up in front of a beautiful bricked building with a red awning that read La Bella you pull up and the vallet takes the car to the parking garage as Gareth takes you inside “wow it’s so beautiful in here” “not as beautiful as you thought” he whispers in your ear causing you to blush the woman at the front desk motions you both forward “Uh Emerson party of 2?” She looks through her book “ah yes right here I see right this way” she grabs two menus and walks towards the round tables towards a small stage where they’re playing 50’s and 60’s music he pulls out your chair table covered in a black cloth with a lamp and flower centerpiece and a gold ashtray “my uncle is friends with the owner so we have the special menus plus he agreed to one glass of wine each so make it a good pick gorgeous” you smile “thank you gare for tonight I’m having a lot of fun” he smiled taking your hands from across the table “good I’m glad and it’s only just beginning” the waiter comes “my name is Rocco I’ll be your server may I start you out with some drinks?” You look up at the waiter “I’ll have a glass of moscato and a glass of water with lemon please” Gareth turns to Rocco “I’ll have a glass of Merlot and a glass of Dr Pepper thank you” the waiter nods “I’ll be right back with that and your special appetizers complements of the chef” you look surprised as Gareth takes in your beauty when the waiter comes back he has all of your drinks and a very large tray of a few different things “your drinks & here we have some fried calamari, some homemade breadsticks in a garlic sauce, Parmesan shrimp skewers and homemade mini meatballs” both of you went wide eyed “enjoy I’ll be back around in 20 with your soup and main course” “thank you” you both said at the same time.

You’re startled by the sound of the alarm as it beeps at 7am the pink sky shining through your blinds as you stretch your legs and arms before heading over to a box of your clothes. You head to the bathroom brushing your teeth and your hair teasing it just the way you like it. Digging around you finally find your favorite pair of tore up jeans your half cut Ozzy t shirt and your leather jacket before grabbing your converse on the way out the door. Grabbing your bag headed to Eddie’s as you make your way across the park you see him digging around in his pockets for something “lose something?” He jumps a little at your presence “yeah I can’t find my damn smokes anywhere I’m pissed” you chuckle don’t worry about it I got extra” you zip open your bag tossing him a spare pack as he looks at you with a sigh of relief “thanks y/n I owe you one” you shake your head “you’re legit giving me a ride you owe me nothing” “nah that’s just because we’re buds now but seriously I owe you one I think Wayne might have swiped my pack this morning by accident” you both hop into the van “tell you what Munson you fire up with me today we’ll call it even because I can smell it on you from here” you started to laugh “shit really?!” You pull out your dads old cologne “here it was my dads it’ll mask the smell” he smiles “thanks” spraying some on himself “damn expensive taste” “that was my dad if it wasn’t the best he didn’t want it” pulling off the radio blares with Metallica as the wind blows through your hair waiting to arrive your first day at a new school. Pulling into the parking lot you weren’t aware of the gawking you were recieving from Gareth and a few other guys in Hawkins as Eddie parked Gareth walked over to your side and opened your door for you “well good morning gorgeous” he says with a cheeky grin “good morning handsome” his cheeks turn red not expecting a comment back as you hop out and peck him on the cheek “okay to the office I need my schedule” Gareth stuck in the moment lags in response before running behind you to catch up “I’ll walk you y/n!” You turn and smile “thanks” you take your pinky and link it with his as you both head to the office many heads turning looking at the both of you Gareth noticed it all but you didn’t notice a thing you don’t let other’s opinions effect your life or feelings. “Hello it’s my first day I’m here for my schedule” the secretary looks up through her glasses “ah you must be y/n here you are dear now hurry along so you’re not late” you and Gareth exit to the hallway as you show him your schedule “holy shit we have all but one class together they gave you French when I have Spanish” you start to giggle “that’s because I’m already fluent in Spanish gar French is one of the ones on my check list of languages to learn” he looks surprised “how many do you know already?” “English,mandarin, Japanese, Spanish, Gallic and German” “wow I’m lucky if I can grasp just Spanish in small words and you speak multiple fluent languages that’s so cool” you blush “don’t know about cool… nerdy maybe” you chuckle “it’s not nerdy it’s awesome & if you’re a nerd you’re the most beautiful nerd I’ve ever seen” you fully grab his hand “come on gare we’re gonna be late for chemistry” walking holding your hand he feels like he’s on top of the world and can’t wait to take you out tomorrow night. Most of the day flew by you both passing notes and drawings up until lunch when you both were heading to the hellfire table when Jason stuck out his foot and trips Gareth with him landing flat on his face “oh my god are you okay gare?!” He’s embarrassed but you can see that Jason is at fault and his laughter is making your blood boil you help Gareth up and to the table while clocking Jason’s seat “stay right here gare” he panics “where are you going?” You’re too angry to hear him all you hear is the sound of your heartbeat in your ears while picking up a bowl of someone’s slop for the day and walking right behind Jason “hey pencil dick I’ll make sure to make your life hell leave my boyfriend and his friends alone fuck nut!”

Being the new kid was never easy… ever since your parents divorced you’ve found yourself in this cycle of getting used to some place and then having to up and leave again. But not this time finally somewhere to plant some roots even if it wasn’t the fanciest place in the world a permanent home of any sort sounded like heaven to you. Your moms sister forever the family savior helping your mom put a lump some down on a trailer in forest hills trailer park in Hawkins Indiana. Moving in had been a hassle beings your mom had to start her new job right away leaving you unpacking the moving truck all by yourself. You got a majority of it inside except for the large furniture items causing you much frustration. You grab your long black hair with bleached out bangs forever loving to be the odd ball not giving a flying fuck what anyone thought of you and not being anywhere long enough to give a shit anyway. You grunt sitting on the back of the truck fiddling in your pockets for your cigarettes and failing to find your lighter before a ringed hand offers you one causing you to jump back surprised by their presence “holy shit I didn’t see you scared the shit out of me man” you clutched your chest catching your breath as he laughed “sorry neighbor.. wanted to see if you needed any help over here my uncle and friends just came out and saw you try and she hulk that dresser you’re gonna throw your back out” as he offers you a light “thanks you live around here too?” He lights his own shaking his head “yeah right over there my names Eddie come on over I’ll introduce you to everybody” you smirk “okay Eddie… it’s nice to meet you the name is y/n” you offer a hand to which he shakes “come on over I’ll introduce you to the guys and the old man” you follow him over seeing a small group of young guys one particularly catching your attention as you both stare at each other a moment before looking away “hey guys this is y/n… y/n this is uncle Wayne” “nice ta meet cha darlin” he offers a kind smile which you return “this is Dustin” you nod “cool hair you kind look like Rogue” you laugh “I’ll take that I love x men” they all look bewildered “you read comics?!” “Yeah I collect them too I have a ton” you smirk “this is Mike and Lucas” “hi” both shyly say in unison you waive “this Jeff and freak” “hi guys” and this is my best friend Gareth “hi” he says shyly cheeks bright red something not unseen by Eddie who wears a shit eating grin “hello” you duck your head from his gaze before Wayne breaks the awkward silence “Alright gentlemen let’s help the lady out everyone get over to the truck and we’ll finish helping her get everything inside” your eyes bulge “oh! You don’t have to do that really it’s oka-“ cutting you off “no no no now what kind of neighbor would I be watching you try and struggle with all that when we have a bunch of hands over here to help ya out it’s not a problem really” “thank you really I appreciate it” you turn directing them towards the truck as the boys all file in figuring out who should grab what and work together getting everything inside you hurry to your room pulling out your phone plugging it into the outlet happy your aunt called ahead just for you to make sure you felt at home in the new place you pull out the phone book looking up a local pizza place “uh hello yes delivery please.. uh 34 cherry tree terrace Forrest hills trailer park… yes 3 large cheese 3 large pepperoni and four 2 liters just mix them up but preferably Dr Pepper for one if you have it?… okay great no that’s all… 30 minutes? Okay have a good night” you hang up running back into the living room as the guys file in carrying the sofa in eddie and gareth working their way through the door with it. “Um i really appreciate the help so… for a thank you… I… kind of ordered a bunch of pizza I hope plain and pepperoni is fine?” They all turn to you smiling eddie smacks gareth to get him to talk “uh yeah that’s good and uh no problem really” he tries not staring too long working his way inside setting down the sofa as Mike and Lucas carry in the dining room table.

After everything’s inside a tap at the screen door you skid to the front door with your wallet “what’s the damage?” You ask “18.50” you hand him $25 “have a goodnight thank you!” As you carry it through the entryway gareth sees you and jumps up “here let me help with that” you blush again “thanks” “you’re welcome” you set everything on the coffee table and go to grab plates and cups in the living room the boys bicker all though you can’t understand them from where you are. “Dude Gareth totally likes her his face is so red right now” Mike cackles “shut it wheeler you been goo goo eyeing her too” Eddie says as he swats the back of mikes head “gareth go help the girl in the kitchen and quit being a chicken shit we can all see the hearts in your eyes… I’m not an idiot she’s a smoke show if you don’t go for it then I will” he tests his friend watching his eyes go wide as he stumbles his way into the kitchen causing Eddie to chuckles “hey.. need any help in here..” “yeah can you go in that box next to you and pull out enough cups for everyone while I dig out the plates?” He nods smiling bringing over small amounts of glasses eventually emptying the whole box without realizing it as he admires you. You look at him his eye his freckles feeling a warm fluttering sensation in your chest you smile and rub the back of your neck before looking at him again “you have really beautiful eyes” you blurt out before slapping your hand over your mouth he laughs “thanks but I think yours are way more beautiful” “huh” he takes a deep breath “look I know you just got here and all and I understand if you don’t want to or think we’re freaks or whatever but… would you wanna maybe catch a movie.. or something Saturday?” You smile “I don’t think youre a freak… at least not as much of a one as I am” you laugh “but I don’t see why not I’d really like that” he seems surprised by your answer stumbling a bit catching himself on the kitchen counter “you… really?.. okay cool” digging his toe into the flooring like a shy schoolgirl “how’s 8 is that good?” You pretend to think for a moment “hmmm yeah that’s cool” you shrug he lets out a breath he didn’t know he was holding onto while helping you carry everything to the living room Eddie looking at both of your beet red faces shaking his head laughing to himself “okay guys here ya go help yourselves and there’s cola, Dr Pepper, root beer and orange soda in the kitchen” everyone digs in Eddie has gareth go with him for a drink “so what happened? Spill!” Eddie whisper yells “I uh… I asked her to goto the movies this Saturday” Eddie grins “and?..” “she said yeah” he slaps Gareth’s back “that’s my boy there ya go now you could potentially have a prom date good for you” gareth shakes his head at his friends teasing both getting a drink and heading back to the sofa. Everyone eats while you all get to know each other talking music and comics not realizing how much you all have in common. You start unloading one of your boxes for your room when they see a tattered d&d book Eddie’s eyes light up “holy shit do you know how old this is?!” You blush “uh yeah I do actually because it was my dads he taught me how to play” they all turn slowly and doe eyed “you have to join hellfire we definitely could use another girl” dustin blurts out “what’s your class and level?” Gareth asks “Level 20 Half elf” they all look extremely surprised “LEVEL 20?!” Mike yells you nod giggling showing them your old campaign book from back in Chicago. The boys take turns skimming throughout the pages along with your sketches and character pages of old friends. “This is amazing” “yeah totally” Eddie and Gareth talk amongst themselves before looking up at you. “Have any interest in joining hellfire?” Eddie asks “hell yeah” you stick your hand out to shake his “and you’re name is?….” “Lady Luna level 20 half elf” you curtsy as he bows and both laugh. “Thanks for the help tonight guys I really appreciate it” “no problem neighbor we’ll get out of your hair but if you need a ride to school tomorrow I leave at 8 sharp just come on over” “thanks Eddie”

They’ve felt the chill of the autumn air as they make their way back home with what they hope is a clue or at least leverage. The sight of the gate growing closer Seeing a few community members at the guard tower Enid being the first to rip the gate open her face showed pure fear. “Oh my god! Is that y/n?!” She starts sobbing before Daryl waves her off “nah but could be a clue or leverage” He takes her down to the cells tossing her into the one across from a drunken Henry who stands up stumbling still “hey… who’s that?” Daryl snaps “you shut up you little shit ya can’t jus stay outta trouble can ya?! And for ya information this might be our only way of finding y/n!” Henry’s face softens “Aunt y/n is in trouble? Or hurt?” Daryl looks deflated “dun know but gotta feeling this thing knows where she is her people are sick pieces of shit!” Henry looks confused “how?” They where Walker skin and walk with them like they’re like them thas fuckin twisted and I had the childhood from hell jus sayin anyway take your drunk ass to sleep and pray ya ma ain’t here but the morning” “shit” Henry whispered “yeah shit now goto fuckin sleep” with that Daryl locks up and heads home nothing but the sound of gravel and leaves that crunch beneath his feet. When he finally gets home Carol is already at the table with two glasses and a jar of moonshine. They both sigh Carol choosing to break the silence “We’ll find her Daryl through hell or high water we will… I have a feeling about this kid.. she definitely knows something she heard Rosita say y/n’s nickname & she said the girls face she looked… I don’t know scared but also like she was hiding something..” both taking a sip welcoming the burn just as the burn for missing her ignites even brighter the longer she’s away “is all ma fault goin out there lookin for him when I shoulda been here fer her GOD DAMN IT!!” He slams his fist against the table before running fingers through his hair tugging at the sides out of frustration Carol rests her hand on top of his hand “we’ll figure this out we’re going to interrogate her first thing in the morning and I promise we’ll do all we can to get her home Dar”. After a few drinks he went off to you & his shared bedroom all his things left just the way there were the last time he was in there staring at her side of the bed running his hand down the silk of your robe hanging on the back of the bathroom door picking it up sitting on the bed finally letting the tears fall as he gets a whiff of your perfume faintly from the fabric kicking his boots off and shimmying out of his jeans he curls up onto your side of the bed hugging onto your robe praying to whatever higher being there may be to keep you safe so he can make everything okay again spend the rest of his life doing everything to fix it. He tossed and turned all night until the smell of coffee had him jumping up and quickly getting dressed. He comes downstairs everyone sees how broken he looks and they’re all determined to help not just for him but because your presence there was the sunshine they all needed someone to hold it together when nobody else could every kid from the kingdom to Alexandria loved her dearly they were her little ducklings they all referred to her as their aunt and she wore that badge proudly. After getting food ready for Henry and the girl carol suggested going in first to which Daryl turned down “we don’t need you goin down there goin all mama bear on his ass we need him right now.. he could befriend her down there they about the same age he can probably get information out of her if we can’t we gotta think ahead it’s y/n’s life at stake here” Carol nodded and stepped aside letting Daryl leave the house and head towards the cells. He stomps down the stairs handing Henry his tray first “here boy eat up and here some damn water ya look like shit” he turns across to where the girl now scammer’s back into a corner “here ya gotta eat somethin & here’s a water…. Now I’ll be back in a couple hours with lunch if ya feel like sharing anythin important it’d be appreciated & if ya

wanna play stupid there’s other ways of gettin ya ta talk” he said glaring at her “HEY LEAVE HER ALONE!” Daryl whips his head “LEAVE HER ALONE SHE KNOW SOMETHING HER PEOPLE GOT YOUR AUNT OR DID YA FORGET BOY MAYBE YOU FORGOT WHO YOUR FAMILY IS!!” Daryl gets so mad he kick’s Henry’s tray full force “Ya know what fuck ya kid don’t come cryin to me when it’s tooo late for y/n because you wanna befriend the enemy” he stomps away slamming the door shut locking it from anyone else even going down there as he takes his bike out for a ride to clear his head. Carol staring off at him through the kitchen window with worry of what will become of her friend if you’re gone.

Meanwhile your current state

Your head hurts worse then before the big caveman goon they call beta gave you a few good thumps to the head and face but still you stand firm the protection of the communities is all that matters to you and the people you love behind those walls. Alpha approaches “okay girl… now see here… your people have something I want back and we already know where your little fantasy land is so youre going to get your people to give me back my daughter in exchange…. Like a trade..” you swallowed hard “what kind of trade?” She smiles tilting her head “well you for her of course no harm no foul there will be no retaliation just stay away from my boarders and all will be right as rain” she gave you a smile that made you vomit in your mouth. Beta stomps behind you cutting you lose from the tree before throwing you over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes alpha’s voice booming across the camp “alright everyone let’s move out”

Back at home

Daryl and Rosita have been taking turns listening to who they now know as Lydia as her and Henry speak of the awful life Lydia has had so far but the moment Henry starts letting out information about the kingdom had Daryl skidding towards the door and down the steps ripping Henry from his cell making Lydia scatter back in fear. Daryl gets him outside “are ya stupid?! Telling her about the kingdom what else ya gonna let’er know?! Did you forget who her people have or do you not just give a shit about anyone but yourself?!” Daryl shoves Henry as Carol walks up on them both Henry yells at him “you used me, you used me to get information you used me!” Carol drags him into rositas house “have you lost your damn mind?! They have your aunt Henry they kill live people for sport Connie saved a baby from them they were sacrificing it to walkers!” His eyes bulge then soften as he begins to cry “do you think she’s okay? Aunt y/n I mean?” Carol sighs “she’s one of the toughest people I know so if anyone can make it it’s her”. Everyone tries to get some rest Daryl slowly getting Lydia to open up finding her moms a carbon copy of his father just more twisted. Torn from his thoughts he here’s Jerry & Maggie’s screams “Someone’s comin and they’re not alone!!” Daryl darts in the direction of the tower grabbing a gun so does Henry getting to the top he sees the skin wearing freaks walking but sees something else too he knows those camo pants anywhere his y/n. Everyone’s slowly watching as they all approach “Now listen here!! I have something you want!! & you have something I want! Give me back my daughter and stay away from my boarders and all will be forgotten there will be no repercussions just give me my daughter and you can have the girl!!!” Daryl stomps towards the gate exiting alone everyone whispers if they’re sure that’s a good idea for him to be walking alone around these people “ya got something I want i got something ya want even trade no bullshit?” Alpha nods “just give her to me and all will be forgotten” Carol drags Lydia towards Daryl at Henry’s protests Daryl has Lydia’s arm “let her go and I let her walk” Beta takes you and tosses you on the dirt like garbage as he shoves Lydia towards alpha not witnessing her mother slap her too busy scooping you up rushing you off to the infirmary as everyone’s faces soften at your state some even crying at how badly beaten you are. Daryl holding the tears as he watches everyone work on you from the door frame not wanting to leave your side. Carol steps inside the room “Daryl I think it’s time you go get a shower and some decent food and at least one night in a real bed… I’ll keep an eye on her tonight & if anything changes I promise to send for you right away” at first Daryl scowls staring off at the wall watching the iv fluids drip into the tubes but then he’s face softens and he nods and grunts as he stands dusting off his knees & sets off to head out but before he does he stops back towards both y/n and Carol “thank you” he whispered “for?” She arches her brow “everythin’” & with that he steps off back to the house to wash off the weeks of dirt all the things that have happened to to him mentally beating himself up for you even being taken if he wasn’t off being too stubborn to except that Rick is gone maybe none of these things would’ve happened. Back in the infirmary Carol sits in the chair next to you her hand holding yours “you really are a tough nut you know that?… the day we found you in Atlanta riding that horse I just knew you were somebody special… to everyone our missing puzzle piece to this family….” Carols eyes began to well with tears as she choked back a sob “&…. & Sofia & Carl loved you so much to them you weren’t just the cool aunt you were a superhero…. You’re like my sister and I love you so much y/n… I know you’ve been through it sweetheart but if you can hear me…. Maybe try take it easy on Daryl… trust me I’ll kick his ass when the time comes but that man fought with all of us like hell to find you… he broke the moment he was filled in on what happened while

You sped down the dark road letting the tears finally burn your eyes. Several parts of you stolen away time and time again. Your mom your father Carl Rick your baby and now your only blood family member left. It hurt in ways you’ll never comprehend. What you didn’t know is that back at home Carol and Daryl were having the argument of a lifetime. “So she keeps all tha from me assuming a bunch of bullshit and then takes the fuck off & you of all people tell me to leave her the hell alone?!” She slammed her mug against the countertop “Well Daryl while you were out there chasing fucking ghosts the rest of us were here dealing with REAL WORLD shit. I feel partially to blame for suggesting she go tell you and talk it out. You’re out there making a new life finding a new family and throw us away like trash like all we’ve survived together meant nothing! You should’ve saw the state I found her in! It’s a miracle she’s even still here sobbing asking God why he had to take the baby and you and how unfair it is that she’s even alive! She tried to take her life that night! But what would you know about that out finding yourself something better or did you just want to have your cake and eat it too like every other guy! I thought I knew you better then this… but apparently I don’t know you at all….” She left him no time to answer walking straight upstairs into her bedroom locking the door behind herself. He stands there letting everything sink in feelings of sadness guilt anger pain he couldn’t bare something else happening to you he grabbed his bag & crossbow and headed towards his bike heading towards the gate where Rosita stands at the entrance “you really think it’s a good idea to follow her right now?… I think she needs space Daryl” he scoffs “space ma ass I’d rather her be angry and safe then hurt or lost somewhere” she rolls her eyes at him “she’s stronger then you think” she says “ain’t say she wasn’t strong just dun want nothin else happenin to er” with that he revs up speeding following your tire tracks. A few miles of tracking you he noticed a skid in the road where your tracks stop a weird piece of barbed wire wrapped in your front tire as he finds your bike on the side of the road laying on its side in a small ditch. Following the drag marks he notices your bag looking into it finding it’s been emptied the rest of your things ransacked he walks a little further seeing dragged footprints not knowing if it was from you or the dead. His heart pounding he runs grabs what little of your things are left and tied his red rag to a tree branch to mark the area before hopping onto his bike and taking off back home to alert the others. He speeds faster then he ever has different senecios invading his thoughts. Skidding to the gate his arms frantically waiving at Ezekiel and Gabriel to open up and let him in the moment he pulls in he alerts Ezekiel to alert the others wake up everyone we have a situation on our hands and need an emergency meeting. Michonne still in pajamas running towards Daryl seeing his destraught state the sadness in his eyes. “What’s going on?” I’ll let y’all know once everyone’s gathered round I don’t think I can explain it twice” he says as his voice cracks she rests her hand on his shoulder guiding him inside of her house where everyone is going to meet. “Alrigh’ now that y’all are here you’re aware y/n took off mad at no fault but my own regardless I tracked her as far as I could somethin is definitely wrong her bike was in a ditch barbed wire in the front tire heres her bag it was picked through and the rest ransacked there were drag marks but it was too dark to tell if they were hers or the dead so at sunrise we set up in groups start a search party split up take the walkies” he steps back hands shaking Carol steps forward handing him a glass a whiskey which he appreciates very much.

Sleep didn’t come for most that night Tara taking it upon herself to make everyone breakfast pulling out ingredients while Daryl sets up the pot of coffee. She sighs looking annoyed his back towards her he replies “wha?” Tara sets down the bowl of pancake batter she'd been stirring "You better fuckin make it right" she said sternly "You find her bring her home fix your bullshit and make it right before you lose her for good because there's plenty of people here who'd kill to know what to be loved by her is like". He looks at her with a scowl "Oh yea and who are these assholes ill break his fuckin legs!" Tara laughs"You really are an idiot ya know that? When you left and she fell apart we helped build each other back up her with her shit and me grieving Denise... Y/n's been the only person to pull me out of my shit as I'm sure she's done for you because that's the kind of person she is.... But like I was saying if you don't fix it and treat her right I'll beat your fuckin ass to a pulp and treat her the way she deserves even if she doesn't feel the same way about me her loving friendship is enough for me so quit ruining everything chasing shit that's long gone before she's long gone too" Tara retrieved the mixing bowl as Daryl gathered the other's. He leaves the room letting her words roll around his head like a game of boggle while going around gathering everyone up to come up with a plan. Once everyone is at Michonne’s eating and getting their fill of caffeine packing their bags and checking their weapons Daryl steps forward in the center of the room “Alrigh’ I know where her bike is so we start from there but split into groups of four to cover more ground me Michonne Carol and Ezekiel in one group Tara Maggie Gabe and Aaron in another can group Connie her sister and those other two as a group and head out in 30… as soon as that sun starts to rise we’re outta here we got one mission bringing y/n back in one piece and uninjured”. Little footsteps can be heard entering the room “Mommy is aunt y/n is in trouble I wanna help… I wanna fight all she’s done for us all it’s the least i could do” tears brim her eyes as her mom kneels to her level putting her hands onto her shoulders “sweetie it’s far too dangerous we don’t know what or who we’re dealing with and myself and aunt Jamie would never forgive ourselves if something happened to you”. She bows her head nodding while digging in her pocket “can you at least give her this? I made it for her for her birthday but lost it I just found it this morning I’d really like her to wear it to keep her safe and so that we have a part of each other” a necklace braided with leather strands off a pair of y/n’s old leather pants in a trunk of clothes her and Jude would play dress up in together attached two feathers and a pink stone “It’s a pink Peruvian I found it when I was digging around when aunt Jamie and uncle Daryl took me and rj fishing one time…. It represents gentleness, inner peace, emotional healing, gentle love and gives the wearer a sense of calmness… she deserves all that and even more.. sorry I’ve been reading a lot but please make sure she gets it mom.. promise me?” Michonne smiles “I promise” she kisses her daughter putting the necklace safely away in her bag wiping her eyes “Eugene you and the elders have the children everyone else let’s move out!”

Meanwhile your current state

Your vision still not fully clear all you can think of is the unbearable throbbing pain in your head and knowing your hands are tied because your wrists feel as if they’d been ran through with a belt sander. As you start to see clearer you notice a camp not the best looking place it smelled of rot and the energy there alone was enough to make your insides curl. Watching dirty covered people walking about and one teenage girl couldn’t be older then 15 at most. She kept sneaking looks at you the moment she saw you awake. The others seemed be busy so she quickly crawled over to where you were “Look I know you have no reason to trust me but I don’t want to hurt you…. I don’t even know why Mama took you well Alpha if she catches me calling her anything other then that I’ll be in trouble again but… quick before someone sees take some of my water” she lifts the canteen to your dry cracked lips you chug as much as she’ll allow you to “here hold on hurry eat this” she pulls out an apple cutting a few chunks off giving you the pieces one at a time. You side eye her “thanks… but why you helpin me?” She sighed whispering lower “I gotta plan she wants to find your camp im gonna lead them away from where y’all live and hopefully they leave you with James because he’s not the smartest and you could run for it”. Alpha steps forward and the girl hurried away “I hope you’ve not spoken to my daughter or anyone for that matter… you only answer to me I’m alpha and we’re the whispers we walk amongst the dead as intended this land is ours theres… but not yours tsk tsk no girl… now you’re gonna start off by telling me your name girl” you roll your eyes at her “y/n but everyone calls me tnt” she cackles at you before stopping after a moment making the most stone frozen malicious glare you’ve ever seen. Her head shaven down completely to the scalp the way she cocks her neck as if she were a drunken chicken trying to pick a fight. Thing she doesn’t know yet she’s pickin a fight with the wrong mother fucker. She steps towards you slowly suddenly a tall man with long matted hair wearing the skin of the dead came stomping through she whips her head towards him “now everyone let’s see what we can get out of this precious little thing here because if she doesn’t tell us what we want well… I’m just gonna have to get beta to make my new face and oh do I love that hair of yours” as she runs her dirty fingers along your hair and face before shoving your head against the tree knocking you right back out.

Back with the group

Daryl touches your bike holding in all his emotions everyone’s discussing directions and double checking walkies. Connie sees him and frowns walking up to him tapping his shoulder to get his attention he turns head hung slightly low peering at her through his lashes she signs to him “don’t worry we’ll find her and you’ll be able to fix this she loves you and you love her I can feel and see it I may be deaf but I’m not stupid” he stands up “I just hope there’s something to fix I messed up I went looking for Rick I took shelter in another woman’s home I wasn’t there when she lost our baby and now….” He chokes up turning his face away she taps him harder getting him to look back the tears slowly flowing “and now she’s probably either hurt or in trouble or…. Or even worse the thought of it makes me sick if she dun want me after we get her home I’ll be lost without er” Connie makes a gesture of being strong and being loving too “You can be both you know love her and be strong for her you can fix it I know you can now let’s go get her”. The groups split and Daryl is feeling every bit of everything you felt the past few months all in one swoop. He trudges on behind his group as they approach a bridge a group of walkers crossing the direction they need to go with no other way around so they do that they do best Daryl grabs his crossbow and shoots one it falling to the ground but only some of them feeding on it this has them confused so Carol shoots one in the leg causing the said Walker to scream and curse the other half of the feeding dead heading to its new victim they take a few down before one surrenders Daryl walking up checking the strange dead ones with Michonne discovering they’re masks made of Walker skin. Daryl mad rips the mask off the lone survivor a teen “please don’t hurt me please” carol knocks her out with the edge of her shotgun and motions for Daryl to pick her up “what? There could be more… what if they know where y/n is? It’s worth a shot” so he throws the girl over his shoulder heading back towards home yet another day without her and he’s starting to crumble apart

WE’ll DO THIS IN A 2 PARTER LOVE THE IDEA

Three months it’s been since he packed his things and told you not to bother following him. Three months since your world fell to pieces even more then it has outside these walls. The worst part was when you tracked him down to tell him you were pregnant you found him playing in a stream with a beautiful woman and a dog. You couldn’t bare the sight another second quietly making your way back home. When Carol had come into your room to see how things went she was not only met with the sight of you uncontrollably sobbing but the giant sized puddle of blood between your legs. Not only has your heart been broken but the stress of it all caused an early term miscarriage. Thank goodness for your girls they kept checking in on you and letting you know they’ll always be there especially Carol, Maggie and Rosita.

Slowly you notice Daryl around more especially around Connie watching him half ass sign to her as he smiles. Wonder how many other women he flirts with not that it’s your business anymore. He catches your eye but before anyone can get any ideas you’re off helping Maggie and Paul load up the horses as Aaron says goodbye to Gracie. Little did you know Daryl was coming too this left you frustrated so you kept your distance feeling his fierce blue eyes piercing the back of your head. Deciding it be best to stick by Rosita and Eugene as you know when you get to the checkpoint you’ll be splitting ways. As soon as the horses pull up to the tower Daryl and the rest of his group went one way while you Eugene and Rosita did your part everything seemed to go off without a hitch. That was until you spotted a hoard approach from the top of the tower as Eugene is slowly climbing underneath you. “Uh Eugene do you see what I see?!” He turned his head brows full of sweat “son of a biscuit we gotta get the hell outta here stat!” He starts clambering down then your bag falls just missing his head as it hits the ground scaring you both as you tumble down hitting the ground with a hard thud. Eugene’s bone sticking from his leg and your ankle is at the very least badly sprained. You see a nearby barn Rosita quickly getting you both inside finding a hiding spot at the top in a hidden compartment in the flooring telling you to stay put until she can get more backup. The both of you huddled together hearing something off into the distance you crawl from the small space much to Eugene’s protests “please be careful y/n” you army crawl to the front opening seeing the hoard circling like buzzards hunting for prey & that's when you hear it “they can’t be far…. Don’t let them get away…” you hear whispers your eyes bulging from your head maybe you have a concussion and you’re hearing things you shuffle back pulling Eugene forward “what the hell are ya doing y/n?” “Eugene shut the fuck up for a moment and listen” you help crawl forward with him listening intensely “they have to be around here somewhere…. We’ll circle around again… we must not let them escape” he looks at you as if he’s seen a ghost “did they just… did they just talk?!” You cover his mouth trying to keep him quiet as not to be found he starts to panic “they’re evolving… the dead are evolving” you both crawl back into the crawl space waiting for help to come minutes turn to hours and the sun begins to set as you both grow extremely tired. The silence enveloping you but then you hear the sound of multiple footsteps it throws you both into a panic trying your best to both stay quiet until you hear the sounds of your brother and Aaron “y/n Eugene you here?..” “hello guys?..” after a moment they hear it “affirmative we’re under here”. Paul slides over to said area swiping away the hay that lay atop the latch door opening it revealing you both Paul pulls you up first then Eugene assessing your injuries & that’s when you see Daryl off in the background ignoring him completely you and Eugene start explaining what it was you saw and heard everyone being convinced you were both delirious you snap “NO! You’re not fuckin listening dipshits these bastards are talking we heard them not to mention they been circling the area since Rosita left!” “That’s impossible” mumbles Daryl “don’t remember anyone askin you asshole so just stay quiet” you spit venom his way throwing him off “besides don’t you have better shit to do better yet better people to do” you limp right by him throwing your shoulder into his as Rosita and Paul help get you out of there seeing the hoard approach “wow look at them this is different they should be miles away by now” said Aaron so Rosita throws a road flare to distract them it working for the first two minutes before they notice the redirection of the hoard “what the fuck? We gotta get the hell out of here now!” You all band together getting outside making your way through brush and trees coming upon a cemetery. You see something moving through the thick fog.

You and Paul both squint to see you look at him and Aaron and break into action taking out walker after Walker. Next thing you know Michonne is at the front gate trying to pry it open to get Eugene out. You three taking out Walker after Walker you goto high five your brother and just as you start to celebrate you hear a voice say something “this is just the beginning” as a sword plunged its way through your brother and you blood curdling scream causing everyone to whip their heads Daryl running over taking out what of these things as left as the rest retreat. Your on your knees with Paul’s head in your lap sobbing “I’m sorry I’m sorry” you bury your face into his chest “it’s okay y/n just remember everything I taught you and all the beautiful moments we’ve had together” then he looks up at Daryl with all he can muster “you make it up to her you make it up to her and my niece or nephew that could’ve been stop running and face your fears” Daryl confused by this just stands there watching you crumble to pieces “no!! Paul no please don’t leave please!” Before you know it you’re being lifted up and thrown over someone’s shoulder as you protest the whole way out of there. Rosita has you go with Daryl and dog to take you back to the house in one piece halfway there you hear moaning and murmuring again Daryl lifts you onto a roof and climbs up himself resting his arm protectively over your back calling dog to get him to redirect the heard as he lights a string of fireworks tossing it to add to the theatrics. The hoard begins following the noise after the fireworks fizz out is when Daryl finally hears it for himself “they can’t be too far keep searching… we don’t stop until they’re all dead…” his eyes snap wide as he stares at you. “What now all of a sudden I’m not so crazy? Do me a favor take me home so you can go back to whatever it is that you do” he takes a deep breath rolling on his back on the roof “what did Paul mean when he was talking about his nephew or niece?” You scoffed “not you’re business not your problem anymore don’t worry about it kay?” You turn away from him “hey! Answer the damn question he had to have said it for a damn reason!” You snap your head at him “oh yeah captain dipshit?! Wanna know what he fuckin meant? He meant me being excited we were gonna be a family just to find you playing house in a stream with some fuckin gorgeous woman and dog so I fuckin left you there you obviously didn’t need me so I went home so God decided to punish me even more by taking the baby from me too you didn’t need us so you got what you wanted! Then you start coming around again and become Connie’s fuckin personal fuckin apocalypse tour guide just to rub it in so you know what I gotta say to that?! Fuck you fuck the bullshit you’ve ever said to me all those nights of confessions didn’t mean shit to you I wasn’t a damn thing to you except something to pass the fuckin time. I lost Carl my little fuckin brother and I lose you I lose my baby and now my brother I think if anybody is entitled to take the fuck off it’s me! Kiss my Irish ass Dixon!” Hours Later

It’s been two weeks since Five has come home. His siblings elated he’s still alive although still trying to adjust to the fact he’s his younger self yet 45 years older somehow. Klaus pours him and five a drink as they both sit in silence in the common area of the house he has a million questions for his brother but knows his temper so tries to think of things to ask that won’t irritate him and might open him up a bit. Hence why klaus now heavy pours each drink as they both start to feel the effects of the alcohol cheeks flushed pink both laughing at how their lives have played out so far “so five was there really nobody else there?.. in the apocalypse with you.. you were all by yourself that whole time?.. I couldn’t imagine” five slips deep in thought one thing coming to mind… her his Dolores although just made of cheap plastic she was all he had during those grueling years keeping him alive with her company “there was Dolores she was my anchor… but now she’s gone and… well it doesn’t matter anymore now does it?” Klaus’ features soften as he’s never seen his brother this vulnerable before “aw brother give me a hug” he reaches for him but five slaps his arms away “get off me you idiot” klaus laughs “oh you love me and you know it” five scowls throwing some random paperwork spewed across the coffee table “I’m just!! I don’t know how to feel right now and there’s so much shit happening I don’t know…” before Klaus can reply to his brother a whirring sound along with sounds of static electricity start to come from towards the fireplace they both stare towards the noise wide eyed yet confused as a bright blue portal starts opening in the middle of the living room at first they see nothing but bright light shielding their eyes as they look forward the faint sight of something swirling towards them klaus is confused and thinks he’s tripping on the multiple drugs he had taken earlier but five starts to come to the realization of what’s coming the mannequin swirling fast towards its exit all of a sudden they see a big ball of white light and a loud bang as sound waves and harsh winds push them back and they hear a loud thud. Both of them uncovering their faces heading to peek over the sofa. Hearing a low groan they both jump back in surprise looking at each other with curious but surprised looks five slowly peeks over seeing a full on woman laying on the floor unconscious “what the fuck is going on?” Klaus comes over to see “who is that?” “I think I… but it’s not possible” he bends down inspecting her pockets pulling out a small white wallet pulling out the identification it read (Delores Hargreeves) his eyes wide as he scoops her up blinking her up into his bedroom laying her carefully under the covers. “I just don’t understand how?” He rubs his chin looking at you with a strange feeling in his chest as he starts to feel warm and comfortable and not understanding why he’s so calm in your presence looking at you he tucks some of your hair behind your ear. He doesn’t understand what’s going on but he’s going to wait for you to wake up to find out. Until then he makes himself endless cups of coffee trying to understand exactly where or when you came from. He has to wait for the rest of his siblings to come home to try and brainstorm. But with the feeling on contentment he has right now because of you being there has him feeling a way he thought he’d never feel around an actual person.

A few hours later you start to stir in your sleep feeling as if you’re head weighs a hundred pounds and as if you’re under water as your hearing starts to clear up and your eyes fluttered open to see him sitting in the corner anxiously waiting to see you fully awake. As soon as he sees you jump up he’s instantly at your side hand gently against your back “hey hey it’s alright you’re safe here” you look at him bottom lip trembling “Mi amor?” You ask he face softens & he smiles (yes my love it is me… i am just wondering how this is even possible) “sì amore mio, sono io... mi chiedo solo come sia possibile” taking his hand “let’s go make some coffee and I'll explain everything" he gently takes your hand escorting you to the kitchen where Mom is preparing dinner "hello mom long time no see" you smile she turns to you "I know you from somewhere" she says skeptically you giggle in return"in another life" you wink at her taking a seat as you pours a both a cup "black please" you wink at him seeing his cheeks turning pink "so... What timeline are you exactly from?" You take a sip of your coffee "think bigger dearest" he looks puzzled "I don't understand?" You put down your cup and sigh "my sister she had the power to turn any object into a living being she says I died in utero and when she saw how well you took care of your partner in your timeline she used her powers to bring me back to be with you but by the time I woke up I was alone. Then I got on the subway and found you we were lost for 20 years we married and lived in a small cottage in 1956 in Sicily we were married in the vineyard I'll never forget that day it's one of my fondest memories then cha cha and hazel found us and you died in my arms I've been hopping from each timeline trying to find you my heart feels empty with you gone my love. It's the kugalblitz dearest you all try to contain it within a sparrow academy member named Chris it'll seem like it's over and it's not the apocalypse will still take everything. Before you died we found a way to stop it which is why the handler sent them after us. To stop us from saving the world. Five the only way to stop it is with my power too and something different to contain it otherwise the world as we know it will cease to exist" you take another sip as he processes the information pulling out his notebook "sweetheart that won't help here take this one" you dig in your bag pulling out a worn brown notebook he skims through it "this is my handwriting.... This... This is it we found a way to fix it your a genius mi amore" he jumps up pulling you in for a hug smelling the lilac and honeysuckle in your perfume making his knees weak "I've missed you so" you say as you press a kiss to his cheek "we gotta tell the others I'll blink us there" you smile taking his hand "together' you nod he powers up and so do you ending up right in the middle of Viktor’s apartment with all the siblings staring at you as if you had 5 heads meanwhile Five adjusts his suit jacket taking your hand to sit down “uh Five… who’s your friend?..” Viktor asks out of curiosity “This is Dolores Hargreeves… my wife” they all look bewildered Luther speaks next “you?? Married? Never thought I’d see the day… but wait a minute Delores is a mannequin she’s upstairs” he looks confused “we’ll explain everything I just need you all to shut up long enough to listen… you think I don’t have a million questions too but that’s not important right now what is important is the fact that she brought me a notebook from a different place in time in my handwriting the calculations are extraordinary and could possibly be the only way we stop this once and for all… but we need her help.. her powers… they’re much more powerful then ours” Alison steps up “powers? She has them too but how?” You step up with a warm smile “I’ll explain quickly dearest don’t worry we have all the time we need no need to get your knickers in a twist love… now Alison my sister and I were meant to be twins I passed in utero when she saw how much love Five had hidden deep inside him she used her powers..

to bring me back and woken my soul to connect with Fives… she gave her life for mine so I could have one… with that I gained her powers with some of my own I can manipulate time anywhere anyway I so chose I can pause fast forward or rewind any moment.. I have the ability to mimic & blink, to bring in adamant objects to life I can fly disappear and do this” you cup your hands as a dimly light red ball forms into your hands “what is that?” Klaus asks “this my dear brother in law has the ability to stun or kill anyone the moment I throw it into their direction… it’s the intention in mind is what happens after I release it” he looks at you wide eyes and smiles “that’s pretty fuckin cool” lila steps next to you “what part are you from at least I’m not the only one now” you chuckle “oh well my mother was born in London and my father is half Irish half Italian” you smile fondly “okay enough.. I think for now we brainstorm a bit recharge and head out and finish this thing” five says with a stern look “okay everyone let’s get some food and get to work five dear may I speak with you a moment… in private?” He looks over to you his features softening and starts to smile “sure come on” he sticks his arm out for you to take looping yours around his own as he takes you back to Viktor’s bedroom as the others talk amongst themselves about everything that’s just happened right in front of them today. “Okay dearest out with it…” he looks at you confused “what?” You laugh “oh don’t be cheeky with me love I know you got something on your mind I can feel it right here” you touch his chest where his heartbeat is pounding up against your hand and his cheeks burn crimson “how??… how many times?” You look at him and pout “oh I hate thinking of this… 64 times it took 64 times of losing you to finally see where you left this notebook it was wedged behind the seat of the station we got off at for our honeymoon…. We went to Ireland you wanted to see where you came from it was… absolutely stunning and that whole month was the happiest I’ve ever been but I don’t want you to think of that now we’ve got this now… all of us no more surprises now that the wicked witch and all her minions are no longer in the way” “it’s still so… crazy that you’re here with me… I just still can’t believe it.. it feels like this isn’t even real like I’m dreaming or something and if I am I don’t ever want to wake up” he says with so much emotion you can feel it vibrating off of him you take in a shaky breath “I’m real I promise love” your lip trembles as a tear streams down your face his hand coming to your cheek to brush it away with his thumb. His eyes flicker from your lips to your eyes his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths slowly closing the gap between the two of you. You don’t dare move a muscle wanting him to give full consent his hands cup your face “can I kiss you” he whispers looking into your eyes but it feels like he’s looking directly into your soul “you never have to ask love of course you can kiss me” you whisper even lower he pulls you in pressing his lips against yours slow but sure of himself his lips so soft and warm meanwhile he thinks you’re the sweetest thing he’s ever tasted the scene becoming more desperate your fingers tangled in his hair his one hand on your ass giving it a light squeeze causing you to whimper he pulls back smirking at you “oh don’t be cheeky love.. and as much as I’d love to right now we have a world to save so let’s go get something to eat and get going yeah?” You lean in giving him one more kiss as he grins at you “alright come on I could do with some food right now I haven’t eaten in two days” you all ate pizza while discussing a game plan. Viktor and Lila would help contain the kugelblitz long enough for you to open a portal far enough away from anything important so when it explodes it doesn’t cause a aftershock domino effect. Five is very worried about you doing this as you’ve just got here and he feels so connected to you already but also wanting to know and learn so much more about you and the life you’ve had

before.. the good parts. He’s scared if you’re not strong enough to handle something so dangerous and also important so all he could think to do is make sure you’re well rested and have the energy to take on something so large. He made you lay your head in his lap taking a short nap knowing he couldn’t let you sleep too long though having to time this just right before the cleanse takes full effect wiping out everything in its path. He kisses your cheek to wake you up you look up at him and smile unaware of Viktor Luther and Alison watching from across the room as klaus tosses back a shot not even paying any mind “I’ve never seen him like this before” Alison whispers to her brothers “yeah me neither it’s kinda nice it’s like she reigns him in or something I can’t even remember the last time I saw him smile and I don’t think I’ve ever saw him blush I need a camera for that next time” Luther says chuckling “maybe her being here is a good thing she was married to him in another time so most likely to her they’re all one in the same” their sister states as Viktor agrees. Five stands up “okay let’s get this shit show on the road shall we?!” Everyone gathers around holding onto you and five he turns to you and grins “ready dear?” You nod “ready” you blink yourselves into the sparrow Academy allowing five to do what he does best go with Luther to discuss our plan with the others. It took a bit of arguing and convincing but they agreed to help leading us down to the basement with it has been hiding. The sight of it is pure insanity to most looking you’ve come too far for too long to let this thing win. You turn to the others with a look of determination and then turn to five “everyone get in your positions!” You yell as Lila and Viktor start to power up keeping the kugelblitz from sending another crushing wave evaporating anything it so chooses you begin focusing in a meditation like state as wind starts whipping violently around the basement as if a hurricane were approaching. Everyone looks to you as a purple hue starts to glow around you entirely you feet floating from the floor. Reaching forward you start to pull enough energy from yourself to start opening a pinhole size black hole. Everyone taking cover except those doing their part objects flying all around everyone Five staring at you as your eyes glow purple and you push harder opening the black hole a little bigger just a bit every couple seconds. You start feeling that gnawing feeling of being tired draining as you push harder for this to work out five sees how you’re struggling a bit and doesn’t want to lose his chances at a real life with you this time so he decides to do something he’s never in his life done profess his love for you in front of people and encourage you “come on angel I know you can do this push fucking harder!! I know you want to come home with your family when this is all over us here your family!! I already know I love you so much it drives me absolutely crazy!! I want to grow old with you!!” You push yourself to a limit you didn’t know existed as tears stream down your face closing your eyes really giving every ounce of yourself as it starts to grow exceedingly bigger “you’re doing it love come on just a bit more I love you!!” His brothers and Alison step in “if he loves you then we all love you come on you got this sis just a little bit more!” As newspapers and luggage flies all over the basement floor you scream on the top of your lungs pushing forward as it finally grows big enough to touch the side of the kugelblitz now is where Alison steps in “peace out mother fucker!!” She smiles as she throws it directly into the black hole with a high pitched scream eyes glowing blue before five gives you the word to close it. Making sure it’s fully far enough he shouts “Now angel now!!” You let go as it quickly snaps shut and you hit the floor feeling soaked in sweat and then it all fades to black.

Outside you both indulge in a cigarette after meeting the twins and nica. You’re just happy to be with him and that he seems less tense then when you first got there. He tugs you to the side for a moment a few moments of peace away from peaking eyes on the side of the building. Gently ushering you against the cold stone wall hand cradling the back of your head as his hazel eyes sparkle “don’t think I forgot love I’ve kept track of the days happy 5th anniversary my sweet girl” you smile looking at him through your lashes as he ghosts his lips across yours “happy anniversary I love you so much” “I love you too” pulling you into a desperate kiss filled with everything you’ve both been feeling since you’ve parted putting into it everything you want to say and more. Your hands running through his now very long hair before giving it a gentle tug earning a low groan from him causing you to smile against his lips before he pulls back holding your face rubbing circles against your cheeks taking you in like he can’t believe you’re even real. “I say we go home I run you a bath and we can give you a nice shave and haircut how’s that sound mr barclay?” “Sounds like heaven im ready whenever you are” you take his hand “come on let’s go say goodbye to everyone” you both head back to the front Kyle giving you a knowing smirk laughing as she shakes her head “damn love birds” “hey Kyle me & Jamie are heading out let me know you got home safely okay?” She waves you both off “yeah yeah little brother you too give me a text or call”. You help him inside the car closing his door for him hopping in the drivers seat and starting up the car “there’s a little something in the glove box wasn’t sure if you’d want it or not so brought it with me just in case” he opens it and a preroll falls into his lap “oh fuck yeah thank you” “you’re welcome love here take my lighter” you toss him your zippo and he lights it taking a much needed deep pull and then another and then another “oh I’m sorry here princess” passing it to you & you giggle “you didn’t have to share Andy but thank you” he looks confused “what? We always share” you sigh “I know that but you’ve been through hell I figured you deserve one for yourself” you shrug “nah there’s no way you didn’t suffer too we share” he nudged you and you take it taking a few drags “you hungry honey?” He nods like an eager child “starved” you laugh “okay anything you want just let me know and we’ll stop” he’s in deep thought before turning around to you “what about our favorite take away spot?” You look over “the Chinese place?” “Yeah we usually always get that on our anniversary and watch movies together I wanna do that tonight” you nod smiling at him “you got it handsome here take my phone & call it in we’ll grab it on the way home that way we don’t have to wait”. He takes your cell dialing and orders all of yours and his favorites along with sushi your heart just feels full having his presence next to you it doesn’t matter what you do as long as he’s there you’re happy. The ride home was filled with soft music and reminders of how much you love and missed each other taking turns putting hands upon thighs and taking each others hands. You went in to grab the food and head to the apartment him helping carry up the bags “everything is piping hot what do you want to do first love bath or food?” His shoulders relax fully “bath please I feel like captain caveman” you chuckle “if it’s any consolation I think you look sexy either way” you peck his cheek before heading into the bathroom running nice hot water getting him everything he needs. He enters the bathroom you help him strip down and ease into the water careful of his injury. He sinks back letting out a deep long sigh of contentment you smile picking up a cup to run some water over his head and wiping his face with a warm rag before shampooing his hair making sure to be extra loving and gentle scratching his scalp hearing him hum in enjoyment before you rinse him and condition out all the tangles & wash him up. Grabbing a towel for him and his robe you pull out

a stool and tap on the seat to let him know to get comfortable. You plug in the clippers and grab your shears taking his long hair into a ponytail before chopping it before the elastic band as it hits the floor you release his hair freeing it as you trim the back sides and top before using the clippers for some of his hair and his face “okay love do you want it all off your face or just trimmed down?” “Trimmed please I look like a kid with no facial hair” you giggle “I don’t mind either way I just want to make sure your comfortable” he takes your hand “you’re something else ya know that?” Smiling “I’ll take that as a compliment now stay still please” you take his chin trimming down everything for him and then dust him off once your finished & run your fingers through his hair getting him to turn around and see himself in the mirror he gets up straightening his pajamas and turns to pull you into a hug taking in the scent of your perfume he’s missed so much “thank you sweetheart” pressing a kiss to the crown of your head “no need to thank me hun now come on let’s go eat before it gets cold” you tug him along out to the living room that you have dimly lit with tea light candles & the favorite cinnamon brown sugar candles you both would get all the time with a stack of films on the coffee table “you pick the movie im gonna grab the food and drinks” you head into the kitchen going into the fridge pulling out a six pack and some plates and utensils before grabbing the food ushering everything to the coffee table andy stands up to help you setting up the dishes and looking at what kind of beer you pulled out he starts to laugh “what’s so funny barclay?” Shaking his head “nothing… just.. when did you start drinking these I know you love your wine and hate this” you blush “well.. when you were gone and I’d have a bad day and miss you more than ever I’d pull out one of those.. I don’t know it’s stupid but.. they reminded me of you & I just became accustomed to swapping things up a bit on those extra hard days” you shrug his eyes glistening as he gives a small half smile while you pull out the food making both of your plates “so what did we settle on for tonight?” “Back to the future?” “Sounds good I’ll set it up you get us each out a drink” you put in the movie going back to your spot on the sofa. The both of you enjoy each other’s company & some hot food he’s really appreciative of right now as he scarves down what’s in front of him in between sips of his beer. You both finish up and nuzzle back into the furniture you patted your lap gesturing for him to lay his head down smiling as he gets comfortable legs stretched across the cushions nestling his head onto your thighs. Your fingers automatically in his hair massaging his scalp your other hand on his back tracing small shapes mostly hearts and you spelling I love you but you won’t tell him not right now as he’s so comfortable relaxed into you soon hearing him snore as you chuckle and continue watching the movie rubbing your hands through his hair. You get an idea an opportunity to tell him all you feel with no embarrassment because he’s sound asleep. “You know… I’ve loved before in my life I won’t lie but I’ve never in my life loved anyone the way I love you. Being without you is like forgetting to breathe like life’s just not as important anymore… never has someone felt like home by just being in their presence I love you more then I’ve ever loved any person ever and I don’t want to know what life is like without you. Andy I love you more then life itself & if that fuckin prick ever finds a way back to you I’ll give my last breath to protect you… no more leaving me out of the loop we fight together all three of us I’m not scared of him or his bat shit crazy wife because what she doesn’t realize is she’s fucking with the wrong people if they want to play fuck around and find out then so be it… but like it or not I love you with every fiber of my being and you’re not in this alone” you take a deep breath and sigh and then you notice he’s exceptionally quiet.

Just the sounds of steady breathing & start to panic face feeling as if it’s on fire “I love you too sweetheart I promise I’ll always keep you included in whatever happens if it ever happens… I just hope it’s really over so we can live our lives would kind of be impossible to plan a wedding while head hunting possessed children’s toys” you just caught on to what he’s just said eyes wide “wha what who’s getting married?” He sits up looking at you putting his hand on your face rubbing his thumb along your cheek before getting up leaving the room to the kitchen you tilt your head to see what he’s doing as he stands on a small step ladder opening the vent above the refrigerator pulling something out of this dusting it off walking back over you stand up and he kneels down & spot a small black box “I had this for when I came back that night but things didn’t go as planned but…. I don’t want to wait anymore I know what I want and I hope I’m what you want… you make my life mean something you give me purpose one worth waking up to.. so would you do the honor of being my wife and marrying me?” Your feel like you can’t breathe hand clutching your heart as you start to cry you fall into him putting your head in the crook of his neck “of course I’ll marry you” coming out cracked as you start to fully let go crying he takes your hand pushing the ring upon your finger smiling standing up as he lifts you off the floor twirling you all over the apartment. Laughing and pressing kisses all over his face you lean down to whisper in his ear “take me to bed love” in a seductive sultry tone you feel him shiver as he nips at the shell of your ear before whisking you off to your shared bedroom your legs wrapped around his waist as he makes his way into the room kicking the door shut behind you before pressing your back against the door cradling your head as he ghosts his lips down your neck and across your collarbone before cradling your face with his free hand looking into your eyes as you watch his shine in a way you’ve never seen before like every brick in the walls he had built around himself came crumbling down right in that moment both of you glossy eyed admiring the other an unspoken bond not needing to say a thing as you’re both reading each other both breathing heavily chests falling and rising. You feverishly close the gap cupping his face with both of your hands. Melting into each other he takes you over to the bed sitting down while your legs still straddle his torso kissing the shell of your ear “turn around for me pretty girl” he whispers causing your whole body to shiver you obliged standing up to turn around but before you turn he stops you….