“Yes, Mama.” Sammy chirped as she pulled the little jean backpack trimmed in white lacy from the spot next to her seat. Sammy wrinkled her nose at the frilly bag, but knew better than to argue with her mama, especially when it was obvious her mama was feeling a certain sort of way. Sammy had no idea why her mama seemed so nervous, it wasn’t like she was the one who had a new teacher and needed to learn all her ABCs.

Beth straightened and smiled down at Sammy before taking her hand and walking her across the little school parking lot. She tilted her head up, chin out in determination. She could just about feel everyone’s eyes on her, but she chose to ignore them. When she’d come home from college she’d been the talk of the town: freshly twenty-two, unmarried, and pregnant. She’d had a steady college boyfriend (not that anyone who gossiped knew that) and they’d even talked about coming back and getting hitched. When Beth had wound up pregnant all those dreams had come crashing down on her. The boy had said he just simply wasn’t ready to be a daddy and had up and disappeared on her. She’d hidden away at her parent’s farm trying desperately not to hear the not so whispered rumors that started in the church yard and followed her around town. After Sammy had been born the gossip mill had moved along from the unwed farmer’s daughter to something else, but Beth hadn’t been listening. She just focused on raising her beautiful sweet baby girl as best she could.

Now it was the first day of school, and she could feel that rumor mill getting ready to start up all over again. Beth was dreading it, but knew she’d bare it and come out stronger because of it. The part that burned her up the most was hearing all the sympathetic mumbles of ‘Poor child, no daddy at home. Such a shame.’ It positively made Beth bristle when she’d catch the tail end of that statement. She was doing just fine by her baby girl without a man in her life to complicate things. Besides, Sammy did have her grandpa.

Hershel had taken some knocks in his life: son and wife passing too early, farming accident that injured his leg and caused him to have to hire outside help, permanent limp, and a stressful harvest season that he had to sit on the sidelines for. Yes, Hershel had had his fair share of hard knocks, but when Beth had arrived back at the farmhouse with the declaration of him becoming a grandfather, now that just simply wasn’t one of them.

Beth entered that kindergarten classroom and ignored how the conversation seemed to stopped when she entered. She followed Sammy to her little chair, with her name on the tag, and the little pencil box that had crayons and a pencil inside. Beth crouched down, helping Sammy take her little backpack off before hanging it on the back of her chair. Sammy looked at the little boy sitting next to her and wrinkled her nose. “Mama, Ms. West put me next to a boy. I don’t wanna sit next to a boy. They’re gross.” She whined.

“Samantha Abigail Greene you mind your manners and be nice.” Beth huffed, putting her hands on her slim hips. “For all you know he don’t wanna sit next to you none either. Now apologize.” Sammy pouted. “Go on now.”

“I’m sorry.” Sammy grumbled looking back to the boy. He gave her a shrug.

“S’okay.” He grinned at her. “I had Ms. West for preschool last year. Ms. West calls me her special helper. She told me she knows I can sit next to anyone and be their friend, even the naughty ones in class.” Beth stifled a snicker as Sammy gave a horrified gasp.

“I am not naughty!” She whined. “Mama, tell him I’m not naughty!” Beth just looked at her daughter for a moment before she opened her mouth to reply. She was stopped short when a man walked up beside her and spoke first.

“Dev, you knock that off right now, y’hear?” Daryl grumbled. “Ain’t no way to make friends in class, ‘specially not on the first day.” Beth jerked around to look at the rough and tumble man now standing beside her.

“Aw, I was just bein’ honest. You always say if a man ain’t honest, he ain’t nothin’ at all.” Daryl felt his ears start to burn red. His eyes flitted from his nephew to the blond standing beside him.

When Merle had showed up, panicked on his doorstep five years ago, Daryl had no idea what he was in for. Merle had blabbered on about how Cheryl (who the hell was Cheryl?) had gotten knocked up and had dumped the baby on him, but he had no idea what he was doing, and he knew he was gonna fuck up this kid, and he knew he couldn’t do anything right, and would Daryl please just watch the kid for a little while until he could get his shit together?

The kid was screaming and carrying on and Daryl did the only thing he could think of: he’d picked the kid up and started bouncing him until he was quiet. Merle took that as an agreement and shouted out his thanks as he all but sprinted down the hallway. Daryl was left alone with his nephew in the dark faster than you could count to three, and it had been the two of them ever since. He’d been trying his best to raise the kid right, but he had a streak in him that belonged solely to his daddy, and there was no taming that mouth no matter what Daryl tried.

That was how he found himself wishing the floor would swallow him whole in the middle of Devon’s kindergarten class while a pretty blond eyed him curiously. “I also say if you ain’t got nothin’ nice to say, you keep that mouth closed.” He grumbled as he watched Devon frown.

“But she started it!” He whined. Daryl was fixing to remind him it was disrespectful to argue back but was stopped by the pretty blond.

“He’s right.” She said, a small smile on her lips. “Sammy can be a handful and isn’t always careful with her words. He was just standin’ up for himself.”

“Mama!” Sammy shrieked from her seat. Beth smiled down at her daughter before ruffling her hair.

“Maybe you’ll think twice about what you say to others huh?” Sammy pouted before turning to the boy next to her.

“I’m Sammy.” She said grudgingly. “What’s your name?”

“I’m Devon,” He paused and looked at her, “do you like frogs?” Sammy’s eyes lit up and she smiled before nodding her head vigorously. Beth shook her head. From enemies to friends just that fast. She turned and looked at the man standing next to her.

“I’m Beth. Beth Greene.” She smiled at him, tucking some hair behind her ear.

“Daryl. Daryl Dixon.” He stuck his hand out to shake hers.

“I have a feeling, Mr. Dixon-“

“Just Daryl.” He cut her off. “Mr. Dixon was my dad.”

“Well, Daryl, I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot of each other.” She motioned to the two kids talking a mile a minute at their table. He felt his heart thump a bit faster in his chest.

“Think so?”

“Oh I know so.” He nodded as he looked at her.

“Well, in that case, wanna get a cup of a coffee?” Beth grinned that hundred-Watt grin.

“I think I’d like that very much…”

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“Beth…” She heard someone rumble somewhere far off, and felt arms go around her. Her brain flashed with images of Lori, desperate and in pain, explaining how to save the baby, and the blood. All of the blood. “Beth.” It was becoming like a chant falling on her deaf ears, trying to draw her out of the place in her mind that she was trapped. She felt herself swaying as she was pressed against something solid, or rather someone. Her eyes clenched shut as her free hand came up to clutch at the cloth before her face. She didn’t know who was holding her, but she sobbed into them, taking their comfort to try to soothe her devastated heart. The baby screeched in her arms, muffled as it pressed into her chest for comfort of its own. She heard movement around her, but couldn’t bring herself to pay attention.

Daryl stared down at the blonde head pressed against his chest. He’d seen Beth walk around the corner and collapse to her knees, covered in blood and in so much visible anguish, and it had felt like his heart had jumped to his throat and choked him. He didn’t know what he was doing until he found himself crouched beside her, calling her name, and wrapping his arm around her. He’d wanted to get her out of the hallway and to her cell, but the devastation in her cries had gutted him and all he could do was press her to him to try to comfort her.

His eyes darted to the group that seemed frozen in the hallway. He could see Rick standing in front of everyone, face pale and almost slack while he wobbled forward slightly. “We need…” Rick croaked out, his eyes staring at Beth, taking in all the blood, knowing what it meant. He cleared his throat. “We need to take care of the body.” He brokenly whispered. Hershel stepped forward.

“I’ll handle it, Rick.” The older man said softly, a hand coming up to rest on Rick’s shoulder.

“No.” Rick’s voice was pained, but determined. “I’ll go…” He took an unsteady step forward.

“Rick I don’t think-” Hershel began

“I-I need,” Rick’s eyes turned to Hershel, “to say goodbye.” It was a long, hard minute before Hershel released Rick’s shoulder with an understanding nod. Rick tucked his chin down, unable to meet eyes with anyone else as he walked around Beth and Daryl, still on the floor, and made his way towards the isolation rooms.

“Beth,” Daryl rumbled again, just above her ear. He felt her head shake from side to side, “Beth we gotta give the baby to someone else so it can get cleaned and you can calm down.” She was trembling in his arms, but finally her sobs had turned to hiccups. His eyes darted up to Maggie and saw her step forward while Carol moved behind her.

“I’ll take her,” Maggie said softly as she knelt down to disentangle Beth from Daryl’s arms.

“I’ll get the baby cleaned up. I remember finding some extra blankets that we can use for swaddling until everything has calmed down a bit.” Carol’s voice was soft next to Maggie’s.

For the first time since she laid eyes on the group and couldn’t hold back the pain, Beth’s eyes opened and took in her surroundings. She saw Maggie next to her, and Carol just beside her. Her watery eyes drifted up and looked to the chest she was still clutching with her blood soaked hand, and then up to Daryl’s face. She felt a mild surprise at noting the concern hidden in his face. She noticed the smear of dirt, mixed with sweat, noting the hard task they’d just returned from, and couldn’t help the feeling that welled up inside her. The moment her hand moved to wipe the mark from his forehead she froze, her eyes landing unseeingly on the deep red that coated her hand. Finally her eyes dropped to the crying bundle in her hands. She could see the little baby, pink from screaming and red from the blood on the cloth that surrounded it. Her shaking hand released Daryl before gently stroking the baby’s forehead. She frowned at the smear it created and moved to try to wipe it away before Maggie caught her wrist gently. “Beth, give it to Carol so she can clean it up.”

“No.” She whispered brokenly before her red eyes landed on Maggie. “I-I got-ta take care of her. I can do it, Maggie. I swear...I can.” She hiccuped uselessly.

“We know Doodlebug.” Hershel’s voice floated softly to her from just behind Maggie. “And you will, but right now, you need to get cleaned up, just like the baby.” Beth’s eyes looked up to Hershel and then down at her hands again, widening like she was only just comprehending what the dilemma was. “Carol will just go clean the baby and get it wrapped up. By then you’ll be clean and ready too.” Beth nodded before gently extending her hands to Carol. She watched numbly as Carol scooped up the baby and moved away. Beth felt Daryl moving beside her and before she knew it she was standing with him, his arm still around her like he was afraid she’d collapse again. Maggie reached out to take her but froze as the loud sound of the gunshot echoed through the corridor. Beth’s eyes stared down the corridor blankly. She felt like she was trying to put puzzle pieces together but for some reason they just wouldn’t quite fit and the picture just wasn’t quite right. She went limply when Maggie guided her down the corridor towards the showers.

Daryl watched, brow furrowed as Beth disappeared. His eyes went to Hershel who was standing beside him. He didn’t know what to say to the man, and Hershel just shook his head. “Sometimes, son, there ain’t any words to make it better.” Daryl gave another nod. “She’ll pull through. She’s stronger’n she looks.” His eyes stared at the doorway Beth and Maggie had disappeared. “She don’t get treated like it much, but she is. She’ll be a little bit battered, and broken, but who ain’t in this world?”

“She wasn’t.” Daryl rumbled, inexplicably saddened at the thought. Hershel gave an agreeing nod. Daryl stood there another moment watching the corridor like he was expecting someone to come back out. He looked down at his shirt and grimaced at the blood staining it. He shot one more look down the hallway before he moved forward.

“Son?” Hershel called.

“Rick’s gonna need help with...the body. Can’t expect him to do it by himself.” He called over his shoulder before adding softly. “At least, he shouldn’t have to with all of us here to help him.” Hershel nodded.

“We’ll start digging.” Hershel said and turned to Glenn. As the two disappeared outside to begin their work Daryl paused in the hallway outside the showers. Maggie emerged quietly and connected eyes with him.

“How she doin’?” Maggie gave a shrug.

“Gonna get a change of clothes and hope that’ll help a little.” He gave a nod and watched as Maggie walked away. He turned to leave but froze as a sound hit his ears. He could hear her again; Beth sobbing her heart out. He couldn’t explain why it hurt him as much as it did to hear it, but it did. He needed to get away. He needed to go help Rick.

Beth sat under the spray of the shower, fully clothed and let the water carry away the grime coating her. Her eyes were closed but she could feel Maggie watching her. Her mind was still foggy and jumbled, and she liked it that way at the moment. “Beth,” Maggie paused until Beth looked at her from her perch under the spray. “I’m going to go get you some fresh clothes and give you some time. Please,” she begged softly, “get clean, and when you’re ready come out. We’re all here for you.” Beth’s head tilted in a jerky nod and she closed her eyes to enjoy the spray. She heard the door shut and slit her eyes to take note of the empty room. She looked down at her hands sitting limply in her lap as the water mixed with the blood and dripped away. Her mind flashed back to the isolation cell.

“Beth, you’re going to have to take that knife and cut along the scar on my stomach.”

“No Lori...no!”

“If you don’t we’ll both die! Save my baby!”

“Lori!”

Beth covered her face as she cried. She cried long and hard as she remembered her friend. She’d been given one job and she’d failed it. She’d failed Rick, and her friend, and now her friend was never going to watch her baby grow up. That baby would never know her mama. Beth had known loss, but nothing like this. Nothing like this.

And so she cried.

~~~

“We gotta make an emergency run.” Daryl’s voice filled the hall where the group usually ate their meals. There was a somber and sad tension that filled everyone, rightfully so, but Daryl knew they didn’t have time to wallow. “Little Ass-kicker needs formula or she won’t make it.” Horrified eyes turned to him.

“Daryl, you can’t call her that.” Carol chided softly.

“That’s what she is. She strong, and she tough, and when she’s old enough she’s gonna kick ass, so that’s her nickname s’far as I’m concerned.” Carol rolled her eyes but looked down at the baby swaddled in her arms. “We need to find formula. We need to form an emergency run party. Who’s comin’ with me?”

“I’ll go.” Daryl whipped around and met eyes with Beth as she stood in the doorway. “I should go.” She added a bit more determined. She was fresh-faced and clean, but Daryl could still tell her eyes were a bit raw from crying. “It’s my fault Lori…” She paused to steady herself. “I couldn’t save Lori, I need to save the baby.” Carol stood and locked eyes with Beth.

“There is no ‘fault.’” She said quickly. “Lori had Carl by c-section. It was a slim chance she would be able to deliver naturally without complications. That isn’t your fault. She came early. That ain’t your fault either.” She came closer to Beth and held the baby out to her. “This baby needs you. She needs you here and with her.” Beth’s eyes flew up to Carol. “We found some powdered milk in the kitchen. We can use that to get by until the scouting party gets back in a few hours, but we need you here.” Beth’s eyes welled up as she looked defeated.

“Doodlebug,” Hershel called softly, “this ain’t a matter of you bein’ too weak to go.” Her eyes snapped over to him. “We’ll let you go if that’s what you really need to do. But that baby needs a mama bear to protect her right now, and with how fiercely you fought to bring her into this world, I couldn’t imagine Lori trustin’ anyone else to take care of her.” He touched her shoulder gently. “We all got jobs to do, Doodlebug. Is your job runnin’ or protectin’ that baby?” Her eyes searched his face, and she could see it. He wasn’t saying it because she was weak. He wasn’t saying it because he thought she amounted to little more than nothing. She looked to Carol who was still holding the little bundle out to her. And finally she looked down to the little bundle. The little pink child who had come into this world bathed in red. The little pink child who didn’t have a mom. The little pink child who needed her. She reached out and cradled the baby to her with a gentle nod. Her eyes landed on Daryl who cracked the barest of smiles in response.

“Who is comin’ with me?” Daryl turned back to the group.

“I’ll go.” Glenn raised his hand.

“And I’ll come.” Carol offered. She looked around. “We’ll hit up some of the abandoned grocery stores and see if there is anything. Even expired, formula would be better than powdered milk.”

“Agreed.” Daryl offered. “Alright, get your things together. We head out in ten.”

~~~

Daryl stared down the sight of his crossbow as they ensured they were clear. They didn’t find much but they found some containers of formula in an abandoned walmart not far from the prison. Having cleared the shelves of what was there Daryl found himself in the garden section. The plants around were either long since dead (those located inside) or extremely overgrown (those with access to the elements outside) but that wasn’t what Daryl was looking for. He rounded a corner and saw the old cardboard stands tipped over and packets scattered everywhere. He scooped up all the packets he could reach and shoved them into the pack on his back. He knew some of them would be flowers, but some of them would be edible seeds to help start that garden Beth had mentioned. They needed to get on their feet sooner rather than later, and this would help.

Something crunched behind him and Daryl swung around, drawing his crossbow up to stare down the sight at a stranger. Her hands were up and she froze just staring at him. “I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Like you could.” He retorted coming to a stand while never letting his weapon or guard fall.

“I’m not going to debate with you. I need a place to hide.” Daryl narrowed his eyes at her. “My name is Michonne.” She paused and looked at him, not dropping her hands.

“Whatchu hidin’ from Michonne?”

“You heard of the Governor?”

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“You gotta stay here and protect this area. If something happens and walkers get back here, we’re counting on you to keep Lori and Carl safe.” Maggie reasoned. Beth was seeing red (metaphorically).

“That’s just bullshit.” She spat.

“Language Beth!” Maggie scolded.

“You want me to stay back here because you know no walkers will get this far back. You don’t think I can handle it.” Maggie crossed her arms in front of her and gave Beth a stern look.

“I want you safe. That’s all.” Maggie looked at the very pregnant Lori sitting on the steps at the end of the cell block. “Between the three of you, you are the most capable. If something does get back here...we need someone besides Lori and Carl to protect this area.”

“But…” Beth’s eyes jumped to the haggard group behind her sister and she tried to make eye contact with someone, but so far everyone was steadfastly refusing. “Daddy, please…” She moved around Maggie. “I can help. I can do this.”

“Bethy, sweetheart. Look at Lori,” he replied beseechingly, “eight months pregnant, almost full term,  and if something gets back here she’s got to rely on her son to protect her. It’s a rock and a hard place of a situation…”

“I can do this.” Beth reaffirmed.

“Beth, do not make me lock you inside a cell. This is a prison, and I can do it.” Maggie growled behind her. Beth rounded on her ready to lay into her when she felt two hands settle on her shoulders. Beth turned again, her eyes landing on the grimey faded brown shirt of Rick’s sheriff uniform.

“Beth…” He started, his green eyes boring into hers. “I need you. I need you to protect my wife and unborn child. I need you to protect my son. I need you to do this for me. I won’t be able to go out there and do what I need to do safely if I’m worrying about them back here. Please, can you do this for me?” She wanted to argue, but knew, as she felt her stomach drop, that she couldn’t do it.

“I...I need a weapon at least.” She offered weakly. She was startled when Daryl walked up and handed her a knife in its sheath.

“Keep this.” He mumbled as she clasped the knife in her hands. She tucked it into the waistband of her pants and watched silently as the rest of the group turned and walked out. She huffed a sigh and moved to sit next to Lori on the stairs. Lori watched her with careful eyes.

“I’m sorry.” Lori said softly.

“It’s not-”

“I know. I also know you feel like you gotta prove yourself, and no one gives you the chance.” She smiled sadly. “It’s a special kind of helpless when no one will look at you twice.” Beth remained silent, listening. “I know it seems hopeless, like it’ll never come, but you will get your chance to prove yourself. Maybe not to everyone, but you’ll show them you are tough and can do what needs to be done.” Beth smiled softly and glanced up to Lori.

“Maybe.” She started but froze when Lori let out a gasp. Lori grabbed Beth’s hand and placed it to her swollen belly. Beth marveled at the rolling and movement coming from underneath. “It still amazes me, every time.” She sighed a little. “I can’t wait to meet this little one.”

“Won’t be long.” Lori said absently. “The more active he gets the more convinced I am he’s going to come early.”

“He?”

“Carl was just as active.” She supplied. “Of course I’m only guessing. Won’t really know until they come out.” Beth giggled and nodded before drawing her hand back into her lap.

“How was your first birth?” Beth asked.

“It was tough. I couldn’t deliver naturally. I started hemorrhaging and they had to rush me into emergency surgery. Carl was born twenty minutes later.” She smiled, “He was healthy and happy. That was all I could have asked for.”

Beth sat troubled. Lori had a difficult birth the first time. If she went into labor they’d need her daddy to help with a second c-section. Beth would be completely unprepared and might lose not just the baby, but Lori as well. She sent up a silent prayer asking for Lori to wait until the group came back. It was her best chance.

~~~

Daryl gripped the edge of the crossbow as he walked through the quiet corridor. They weren’t to the dangerous section yet, but it never hurt to be too careful. His eyes scanned over their little group. Hershel, Rick, Maggie, Glenn, Carol and him. Everyone had been decided to go. Everyone except Beth that was. She’d been forced to stay behind and guard Lori.

Daryl still marveled at the anger she’d been filled with when Maggie had told her she had to stay behind. No one had been able to calm her, except for Rick. Rick had been able to move in their and smooth talk the situation like she wasn’t being targeted for being one of the weakest links in their group. No one said it (well, Maggie said it all the damn time but for some reason she didn’t count) but everyone knew that Beth was in a dire need of training but would most likely hurt herself before learning anything.

Daryl tended to disagree. He knew she could learn, but he’d be damned if he’d be the one to sully her light with the training and danger of it all. She didn’t need all that on her. So, Daryl had stood by, silent, while she’d begged, and pleaded, and begged some more to be trained. Daryl had stood by silent as she’d thundered and raged (you couldn’t really call it that, to be honest) every time someone went out to clear the perimeter and told her not to leave her cell. He’d stood by silently as it seemed like her little spirit was being broken and she was accepting her fate. It ate at him, chewed him raw, to see, and he couldn’t stomach when they’d all stood there and she’d seemed so desperate to prove herself and protect Lori (after she’d accepted the fact that she was going to be left behind regardless of if she wanted to or not.) She was right. She needed a weapon if she was going to be successful at all in her ‘mission.’ He’d gotten some of the darkest glares from Maggie when he’d pressed that knife into Beth’s hands, but he hadn’t cared.

It was a funny thing; to understand why your soulmate was a certain way, but to disagree with it. It was just his luck to spend so much damn time around his soulmate only to watch her spend more time with someone else (she and Glenn were getting awfully close). It was just his luck to spend so much time around his soulmate only to find he really disagreed with a lot of what she did or thought. Hell, he was a Dixon afterall. Honestly, it was just Dixon luck for all of that.

Knowing Dixon luck, his colors would arrive and he wouldn’t really have a soulmate at all. The longer he spent around their little farm family additions, that was exactly what he thought was going on. Had to be. His Dixon luck had caused him to be broken; with colors and without a soulmate to share them with. It was a special kind of hell. All the colors that your mind can’t even imagine and no one to talk about or understand them with. The only positive was now he didn’t have to worry about keeping anyone alive because of sentimental reasons. He didn’t have to get attached.

He could focus on keeping everyone alive, no matter how angry they were at getting left behind.

“Alright,” Rick said softly, trying to keep his voice down. Just beyond the barred door in front of them was the hall to the kitchens. They needed to be tactical about this. Nice and quiet until they were in position. “I’m gonna unbar the door, and fire off a round. That’ll draw them over this way, but they’ll be funneled through this door. Hopefully we can take the majority of them out in smaller numbers before we have to move past this point to the kitchens.” His eyes scanned their group. “Any questions?” Daryl gripped his crossbow and shook his head in the negative. Rick gave a nod. “Alright, everyone take your positions.”

~~~

Beth was sitting in her cell writing in her little notebook when she heard Lori begin pacing the cellblock. She closed her notebook and stood to lean against her open door and watch. “You gettin’ restless?” She asked and watched Lori stroke her belly as she moved.

“Yeah...must be it.” Lori agreed distractedly. Beth frowned.

“You alright?” She walked to Lori’s side as Lori gripped the hand railing and began breathing.

“Yeah. Just weak...think I need to eat something…” Beth could tell she was lying.

“Lori…” Lori’s eyes landed on Beth and the fear was palpable.

“Beth…” She breathed, “I think the baby is coming.”

~~~

Daryl wiped the grime from his hands. Killing the walkers as they’d funneled through the door had been a good idea, but difficult to execute. Getting into the kitchen had been even harder, but they’d managed. There was a stock of cans they could use to help tide everyone over until their garden was up and functioning. He pulled the backpack and bag from around his neck and flung them over to Maggie as she started shoving the cans in. “Looks like we got some peaches, corn, beans, cans of chicken, and a large bag of rice down here.” Maggie said as she shoved things into the bag. “We won’t be able to take it all right now. We’ll have to come back in a few trips to get everything. Trying to secure this section would mean cleaning another cell block. Right now, it just ain’t worth it.” They all nodded.

“We can plan another smaller run after we get back. Just grab what you can carry and we’ll make our way back.” Rick supplied as she stuffed another bag full of cans. Daryl gave a grunt as he kept an eye out down the hallway for more walkers coming. So far, so clear.

“That’s all I can carry,” Glenn offered. Maggie made an agreeing noise. Grunts were heard through area before Rick made the signal for everyone to head back. Daryl tried his best to bar the door once everyone was out so that no walkers would get in, but there wasn’t much he could do to really secure the room.

He barred the door once everyone back through the safe zone and continued down the hallway back towards their cell block. When everyone entered it was deathly quiet, with an air that put everyone on edge.

“Beth? Lori?” Rick called out as he walked to the center of the cell block.

“Dad!” Carl cried out from inside his locked cell. Rick rushed over. “It’s mom...the baby is coming.” Rick’s eyes widened and he stood rushing to the end of cell block but stopped halfway down the hall and froze. He heard footsteps behind him but just watched.

The fear in Rick’s voice pushed Daryl into action, moving before he knew what was happening. He froze next to Rick as the sound hit his ears before the picture met his eyes.

Beth stumbled down the hallway, tears blurring her eyes as she walked. She cradled a bloodied sweatshirt to her, not caring of the blood spattered across her front and dripping down her arms. Her eyes landed on everyone’s faces as she rounded the corner and she froze just staring at everyone. A choked sob escaped her throat before she collapsed to her knees, clutching the bundle closer to her as it started wailing.

Her blue eyes darted up as she heard someone step close to her and she locked eyes with Daryl. It was half a breathe that she could hold his gaze before she broke and the baby’s wails were joined by her own.

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Daryl’s heart hammered back to life in his chest as the knot in his stomach loosened. The second this little slip of a girl had mentioned colors Daryl’s heart had stopped and his stomach had dropped to the floor. It would be his luck to get stuck with a girl who was more than likely going to get him dead than anything else. Hearing that she was only imagining helped to ease the fear and tension in his gut. Daryl stared at her for a moment longer, just studying her. He’d never really allowed himself a moment to do that; shouldn’t really be doing it now either if he was completely honest.

She was young. Really young. Blonde hair that shone like sunshine and blue eyes that were way too innocent and made his stomach tighten uncomfortably. She was way too sheltered, and it was going to get her killed. Daryl felt a moment of sadness touch him at that thought, but brushed it off. Lots of people die in this world, he’d do his best to see her trained properly, but after that it wasn’t his problem. His eyes watched as she nervously fidgeted with the pocket of her pants and for a fleeting moment he recognized how she could be considered pretty; by younger guys. He corrected. Guys her own age. He clarified in his mind. Definitely not him. “Y’really shouldn’t be out here.” She gave a quick nod before taking a hesitant step forward while tucking her knife away. “Go’on.” With that she scurried away. Daryl stood for a moment, trying to clear his mind.

His eyes scanned the area and he resisted the urge to smile. If she could see color, this definitely would be a good place to come. His eyes scanned over the greens and browns. Yeah, this definitely would have been the spot.

~~~

Beth wiped her brow as she scrubbed the dishes. Her eyes watched as people milled around the yard. She saw Daryl talking to Rick down by the barn and her heart thumped a little faster. Ever since her little slip up in the woods, three days ago, she’d been avoiding being around Daryl. It wasn’t that she liked him...heavens no. He just made her feel so off kilter. He seemed to keep to himself, and study. That was something new.

No one ever studied to make their own conclusion. At least not when it came to her. Everyone always assumed that she was helpless, and in need of protecting. He didn’t seem that way. He was keen on coming to his own conclusion. And that’s what made her nervous. He could possibly be the only one on this whole farm that would see her; truly see her. And she didn’t want to mess that up...if she hadn’t already.

She watched as her daddy approached the duo, sharing a few words before Daryl gave a few short, curt nods and stooped to pick up his crossbow and headed out into the woods. No doubt they were discussing the food stores. While the farm was getting by on the crops that daddy had planted, all the extra mouths were making those food supplies dip mighty low. They were going to have to go out for a hunt; see if there wasn’t some game they could flush out to help stretch the food a bit longer. Beth sighed. She could make something like spaghetti tonight. The pasta would feed a lot of mouths on a smaller supply. She could toss in a few of the tomatoes from the garden to help stretch the sauce. That might buy their little group some time until a proper hunt to help find more food.

~~~

“Afternoon, boys.” Hershel said as he neared Rick and Daryl. Both men tipped their heads. “I got kind of an odd request. Our food stores are running a touch low,” he hedged carefully, “I’ve been tryin’ to stretch the crops we got so far, but I’m afraid it ain’t much without some protein.” Both men nodded. “We got some livestock animals, but if we sacrifice one, there’s no tellin’ how that will hurt us in the long run.”

“Say no more, Hershel.” Rick offered. “I’m sure we can find somethin’ in the forest.” Hershel brightened as Daryl stooped to scoop up his crossbow.

“That would be mighty fine of you sirs.” Hershel nodded. “It’d be a nice surprise for Bethy what with her birthday comin’ up.” Daryl paused as he turned to leave the group.

“Beth’s birthday is coming up?” Rick’s voice rose in surprise.

“Yes sir. Day after next.” Hershel shoved his hands in his pockets gently. “We don’t do much for it, considering. But it’d be nice to have a full meal available. Kind of a celebration of sorts.” Rick nodded and cast his eyes to Daryl who gave a low grunt before moving off towards the perimeter fence and the forest.

Daryl thought as he quietly moved through the green and brown underbrush. She may be a small, slip of a girl, who was woefully unprepared for the world she lived in, but that didn’t mean she didn’t deserve to have a decent meal on her birthday. Hell, it might help put some meat and muscle on her frame so she could get stronger. He gave a snort.

He needed to find some game for the group anyway. Having Beth’s birthday was just an extra excuse to get out here and hunt. It wasn’t like he liked the girl. No...definitely not.

~~~

Beth groaned as she peeled her shirt up over her head. She’d had a hard day today. She’d woken bright and early intending to train before her chores, but Daryl was nowhere to be seen. She’d had to settle with doing some extra mucking in the barn, and plowing some of the fallow fields to get ready for their late summer crops that needed to go down. She’d worked clear through the day and felt about ready to drop, but she couldn’t she still needed to get down there and make dinner for everyone. She sighed as she swiped the cool damp rag along her neck and dropped it back into the sink. She’d give herself a better clean up after dinner, once everyone had settled for the night.

Without a second thought she pulled another shirt over her head and turned to leave the bathroom. Quickly she made her way downstairs only to stop dead in her tracks when she saw everyone piled in the kitchen around a dinner that was already made and smiling up at her.

“Happy birthday Beth!” Lori called, followed by Maggie, Hershel, Rick and most of the rest of their group. A bright smile lit up her face as she stared at everyone. Rick came up and slung an arm around her giving her a gentle hug.

“We know it ain’t much, but we put together a little something for dinner.” Rick swept his hand over the table that was just covered with food. Beth let out a small gasp.

“Oh my goodness.” She breathed staring over the meal. There were carrots, potatoes, green beans (canned of course), and rabbit.

“Snared us a couple a rabbits. Figured we could enjoy some today and then store the rest. Use them for different meals.” Beth’s eye shot up to Daryl and she smiled.

“That was very smart of you Daryl.” She breathed. “We can make jerky and maybe make some soups from the bones.” She offered. She had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from giggling at the adorable shade of red his cheeks started to turn at her praise. The fact that he - that anyone - had gone to so much trouble for her was astounding. “My word.” She shook her head. “Thank you everyone. This is so amazing.” She looked around at everyone one more time. “Let’s eat. I can’t wait any longer.” She was met with a round of cheers as everyone milled around to start the festivities.

Daryl stood back, hunched against the wall, watching everyone. He hadn’t seen their little group this happy in a long while. Who’d have guessed that all it took was a few measly rabbits to put everyone in high spirits. His eyes darted to Maggie who was laughing with Beth at one end of the table. He noticed Glenn hovering a touch too close to Maggie, but for some reason couldn’t find it in him to be bothered. He didn’t have a swell of emotion within him like he would have thought he should if another man was sitting a little too close to his soul mate. Not like the swell of pride he’d gotten when Beth had paid him that compliment about the rabbits. If he was that way with a nobody, shouldn’t he have stronger feelings with his soul mate? Trust the Dixon gene to be so fucked up that even this soulmate shit didn’t work correctly.

He let out a sigh. It would just figure.

~~~

Beth smiled and sighed as she splashed cool water on her skin. Tonight had been amazing. So much fun and so much food. They hadn’t eaten that well on the farm in a long time, and it was nice to have one night where everyone was free to laugh and eat until they had to be rolled away from the table.

Gingerly she cleaned herself, scrubbing away the day’s grime and smells. She felt like a whole new person. It was amazing what a good meal and a night of laughing could do for a person, mind, body, and soul.

Beth tugged on a tank top, ready to climb into bed and sleep like the dead. She froze as sounds ricocheted off the walls from the windows as from inside the house. Her blood ran cold. Those were walkers. Lots of walkers. And they were close. She jumped as someone pounded on the door to the bathroom before flinging it wide. Her frightened eyes landed on Daryl as he surveyed her. He reached out, grabbing her wrist before tugging her out of the bathroom.

“C’mon girl. We gotta move.”

“Daryl, what’s goin’ on?” She cried as she heard gun fire from outside and the shouts of their group members.

“Walkers.” He responded as he pulled her downstairs. “A lot of them.” Her eyes widened. “We can’t stay here.”

“What?” He all but dragged her through the front door and the sounds seemed to become deafening. She froze on the spot at the bottom of the stairs to the porch. The sheer amount of walkers pouring in from the fences. Her eyes jumped from the walkers to the members of their group spraying them with bullets in a feeble attempt to hold them back.  

“Move Greene!” Daryl yanked on her arm, spurring her into action. He flung her towards a motorcycle before climbing on himself and kicking it on. He felt Beth climb on behind him. Her arms circled around him and he spurred the bike onward into the night.

Taglist: @imamotherfuckingstar-lord @fangirl1802 @blueicevalkyrie @deathtonormalcy56 @walkerfairytales @redrosalie1

The sound of dirt crunching underfoot alerted him to her presence and he turned to watch her. Beth.

Beth Greene had been an unexpected turn his life had taken upon his arrival back into their sleepy little town. He’d always known who the Greene's were, but had never had any reason to cross any of their paths. Meeting her had just been a lucky happenstance. Good luck wasn’t something Daryl was used to.

He watched as she came up and gently took his hand, threading her fingers with his.

She’d bustled into his life in a crowded diner with a pot of coffee and had quickly decided right beside him was where she belonged. And that was where she stayed, much to the dismay of her older sister. Her daddy had been weary at first, but everyone knew: when Beth set her mind to something, there wasn’t a soul alive who could convince her otherwise. So, Hershel Greene had welcomed Daryl into the family fold.

It had taken a year before he’d shared his past with her. Curled up in their tiny little apartment, bathed in moonlight and the heat of summer clinging to their skin, he shared about his childhood and, for once, let her light chase away the dark within him. It had taken another six months before he’d been willing to even listen to her ideas about ‘healing old wounds.’

That was how he found himself here. At the sonuvabitch’s grave, Beth’s delicate hand woven with his. He took another long pull from his cigarette before dropping the damn thing to the ground and stamping it out with his foot. Together he walked them over to the small marker that read ‘Will Dixon’ and they just stared in silence for a moment.

“Been a while, ol’ man.” Daryl rumbled out. He could feel an unchecked emotion burning in the back of his throat and started when Beth gently squeezed his hand in reassurance. “I ain’t here to make amends or forgive…the shit you done ain’t worth forgivin’. I’m here to let you know, I’m leavin’ this shit here. All that bad and dark, I’m leavin’ it here, with you, where it belongs.” He felt Beth rubbing gently on his upper arm with her other hand. “You ain’t gonna color my future the way you colored my past.” He felt clever spouting off something he’d heard Beth tell him a time or two when he’d voice insecurities. He paused for a moment, feeling lighter, like the old man’s hold had finally losened. He smiled over at Beth. “I’m leavin’ this shit here…and I ain’t comin’ back. Got too much good with me to keep holdin’ on to all your bad. So, this is me, leavin’ it here.” He stood there for a moment awkwardly before looking to Beth. She smiled up at him, knowing how much this whole thing had affected him, and how important it was to him to get it done.

She kissed his shoulder before he grumbled that he was done and ready to go. She nodded and followed him back to their truck. She watched him silently from the passenger seat as he climbed into the driver side of the truck and buckled in. He looked at her. “What?”

“Nothin’. Just proud of you. I know that was hard for you. But you did it, and I’m so proud of you.” His hand moved from the steering wheel to rest gently on her rounding belly.

“I had to. Like you keep sayin’, we got too much good comin’ to let the bad keep colorin’ our future.” He smiled at her, “Still think this baby’s gonna be more Greene than Dixon.” She snorted as she felt a swift kick to the area where Daryl’s hand was resting and watched him smile at her. “Tough, just like her mama.”

One prim blonde eyebrow quirked up on her forehead. “What has you snickerin’ over there, Mr. Dixon?” She said, trying to add a playful layer of ice to her tone (it didn’t work.)

“I ain’t snickerin’.” He cracked a half smile. “I’m laughing because I knew it would take you about fifteen minutes to get fed up with your classes on a Saturday, and it’s only been about ten.” He gave her a look she had long since nicknamed his ‘sassy look’ (though she’d die before telling him that she called it that) and stood up. “Y’need to get outta the house.” He grabbed her coat from the couch next to him and tossed it at her. “C’mon. It’s almost time to be headin’ over to your dad’s house anyway.” She let out a small groan before a secretive smile had crept to her lips. Maggie had called yesterday fit to burst and said she needed to talk to the whole family. A quick lunch date at the farm had been set up for today.

Beth and Daryl had been taking bets. He had money saying she and Glenn had gotten knocked up. Beth stoutly refused to think she was becoming an aunt (not because it was out of the realm of possibility, but because she knew babies weren’t anywhere near Maggie and Glenn’s radar…and Maggie was always very careful) and placed her money confidently on the idea that Maggie had gotten that dream job she’d interviewed for two weeks prior. Daryl had rolled his eyes. Winner takes all (a whopping five dollars.)

“True. I gotta find out that you were wrong so I can get my big payday.” Daryl let out another snort.

“Think we should pick up a onesie on our way for when she lets us all know that I’m right?”

“Not on your life.” She chirped as she shrugged on her jacket and snatched up her keys. She followed Daryl out, watching him as he moved and smiled to herself. Since everything had gone down in January she’d started taking the time to really analyze their relationship as well as Daryl himself. She knew she loved him, but she’d never really taken the time to consider where this was going. So far in the relationship she was living in the moment, which was fine, but the scare had given her a good shake and made her start looking to the future.

She didn’t tell him, mind you, not because she didn’t want to, but after the whole baby-that-never-was he’d started getting short and distant when they talked about the future. She didn’t want to make waves, they’d only been together less than a year. She jerked when she realized…they were coming up on the one year anniversary of their first night together (the night they still couldn’t remember). Had it really been that long? Butterflies started in her tummy. She wanted to do something for him to celebrate but right now didn’t feel like it would be the best decision right now.

The pair piled into Daryl’s truck and Beth made a mental note that she needed to make an appointment to get her car into the shop for that weird ticking that was coming from the motor. It had started on her way back from Atlanta last month, but had steadily gotten worse as time progressed. They’d decided to try and not drive it until they could have it looked at, which Beth needed to get done before her drive to school this week. It effectively left them in a one-car predicament and Beth knew Daryl couldn’t go without his truck if she needed to take it to school. No, it was better if she just got her car taken care of before school.

“Damn…” She heard Daryl mutter and her blue eyes darted to him.

“What?”

“Forgot to mention that I took your car to the shop. They’re gonna call and let us know if it’s something serious.” Her face softened and she smiled at him.

“How’d you know I was just thinkin’ ‘bout that?”

“I can tell your thinkin’ face.” He said simply with a shrug. He wouldn’t tell her that she had many ‘thinking faces’ that he recognized. She had her ‘school thinking face’ which often had her gently touching her temple like she was trying to figure out a problem. She had her as-of-yet unnamed ‘thinking face’ (he didn’t know what she was thinking about but she was thinking something serious) where she’d roll her lips back and her eyes glazed a little bit. This new ‘thinking face’ had only started cropping up after “the scare” (as Beth liked to call it) in January, but Daryl couldn’t work up the nerve to ask her about it. The last ‘thinking face’ he’d seen he’d deemed as her ‘fretting face.’ She used it when she was fretting or worrying about bills, or something that had to do with responsibilities. The face he’d just seen was her ‘fretting face’ and he knew she’d been fretting over the car for the past couple of weeks.

“My thinkin’ face huh?”

“Yup, your ‘thinkin’ face.’” He mumbled quietly as he turned onto the main highway. “Anyway, took it in this mornin’ and they said it sounds like the timing belt, but they’d have to take a good look at it ‘fore they could say for sure.” She smiled, nodded and then leaned over to plant a kiss to his cheek.

“You spoil me.” She said before she kissed his cheek once more. “Thank you.” He gave her a silent shrug but she noticed the corners of his mouth tug up into a small smile for her. He took her hand in his, and she laced their fingers together. The rest of the ride passed by in relative silence, only the radio really making much sound in the small space between them, but it wasn’t strained or awkward between them. Before long they were pulling up the familiar dirt road, tires kicking up a cloud behind them. He rumbled to a stop just under one of the big trees by the porch and noticed a big grin on her face. Before he could ask she was speaking. “You ready to fork up the big bucks?” She undid her belt and popped out of the truck faster than he could blink.

He followed, watching her bounce up the stairs and inside the big farm house. “Daddy?” She called as she entered the living room. Daryl heard something from the field behind him, pausing as he mounted the steps to look over his shoulder.

“Beth…” He called. “He’s out here.” Daryl turned as he heard the old screen door creak open and she came up behind him. They watched as Hershel Greene made his way steadily across the field between the house and the barn. He was wiping his hands on a rag as he went.

“Sorry…” Hershel called as he neared the couple standing on his porch. “The mare wasn’t due to birth until later this week, but she’s been in labor all morning. Been working with Otis to get the foal out. Little thing was breached, but we got ‘im.” He gave a nod and smiled fondly up at his daughter. “Come inside with me so I can clean up and you can check on lunch Bethy.” She gave a hum as she turned to make her way inside. “Hello Daryl, how are you today?”

“Breathin’ so that’s better than some folks.” Hershel nodded.

“Ain’t it though?” The pair of men made their way inside. The smell of roast assaulting their noses as they made their way to the kitchen.

“This is ready to pull out and rest.” Beth announced as they entered the room. “Much longer’n it’ll be too dry. Might be close to there already.” She said matter-of-factly. She pursed her lips. “I’ll make a gravy from the drippin’s in case it got over cooked.”

“I’m sorry Bethy.” Hershel sighed. “I just tossed everything in the pan and went out to help Otis. Didn’t think I’d be out there so long. ‘Sides, it always was your mama who made the roasts without over cookin’ it.”

“I know. She had that magic touch.” Daryl watched as Beth floated around the kitchen she’d grown up in, grabbing bowls and pots to drain the juices and start making the gravy. He loved to watch her work in the kitchen. It was part of the reason he let her cook so often (that and she loved to cook in their little kitchen.) He could burn water more times than not, so the concept of feeling at home in the kitchen was new to him.

As Beth stood, whisking the gravy together they heard another engine rumble up along the path. All eyes turned towards the front door as they heard the crunch of dirt and rock stop, and then engine cut off. “Must be Glenn and Maggie.” Hershel said, drying his hands after washing them. “I’ll be right back.” With that Hershel made his way out to greet the couple.

The three bustled into the kitchen in a flurry of movement and sound (as was typical of Maggie and Glenn nowadays) and Daryl had to take a deep breath to cope with the sudden change in atmosphere.

“Alright y’all…” Maggie started, obviously very excited. “I can’t wait for lunch to be served.” Beth’s eyes darted over to Daryl, a playful glint hiding in her crystalline orbs. “Daddy, Beth…Daryl,” Maggie turned to look at Glenn. “Glenn proposed y’all. We’re getting’ married!”

The moment of shocked silence stretched between them before a loud girly squeal emitted from Beth’s throat and she launched herself at her sister. “Oh my goodness!” Beth let out another squeal and hugged her sister again. Maggie dragged her hand up to show Beth the ring as the two gushed and cooed about the wonderful news.

Daryl eyed Glenn, standing against the door jamb, next to Hershel. “Looks, like I’m gettin’ another son.” Hershel said with a small smile. “Welcome to the family Glenn.” Hershel patted Glenn on the shoulder. The men watched as Beth and Maggie moved out of the kitchen, lunch completely forgotten, and Daryl couldn’t help the heavy weight that seemed to be pressing down on his chest. As soon as Maggie had blurted out that she was getting married, Daryl had felt the unmistakable urge to swallow his tongue. It wasn’t that he was against marriage, but after everything had happened between Beth and him, he’d had a chance to think about their future (not something he’d really dared before.)

Daryl wasn’t afraid of commitment, but he’d never seen a good marriage actually work. What did he know about being married or being a good husband? Not a damn thing. Did he see himself getting hitched to Beth? Well, hell, he just didn’t know. He knew he didn’t want whatever they had to end, but marriage? That was a path he’d never really considered before.

Lunch was a blur of jokes and the girls talking. Maggie and Beth were planning dress shopping dates, and talking things that sounded plain gibberish to him. Caterers, and venues, and florists. Jeez, weddings sounded complicated. He caught Beth’s eyes and she smiled at him, clearly elated for her big sister, and Daryl felt something tighten in the vicinity of his heart. There was this excited glimmer in her eyes that screamed of excitement and happiness. He’d never seen anything like it before, and it positively captivated him.

Glenn nudged him quietly, “Didn’t realize this was going to turn into a big thing…” He mumbled and Daryl had to keep from snorting.

“You just proposed to a Greene girl…there ain’t no way it wasn’t goin’ to be a big thing.” Glenn grinned at him.

“Looks like you’ve got a sneak peek at what to expect when it’s your turn.” Daryl grit his teeth and instantly Glenn knew that was the wrong thing to say. “I mean…if you guys decide…I mean…uh…” Daryl gave a short grunt and that was the end of the conversation. Glenn shifted nervously in his seat.

Daryl couldn’t help the pinch of sympathy the stole through him at the younger man’s discomfort. He didn’t want it to seem like marriage was completely off the table…it just wasn’t something he’d ever really thought about for himself. He looked over at Beth again. After the whole scare, the idea of a more permanent thing with Beth had become more of a reality. He saw the glimmer in her eyes again and was flooded with a warmth in his chest.

One thing he knew for sure, he wanted to see that excited glimmer in Beth’s eyes everyday for the rest of his life. He wanted to see that excitement, that joy, that dreamy-eyed glint that he knew most girls grew up with when they thought about their dream wedding.

It was like a light bulb turned on in Daryl’s mind. He wanted to marry Beth Greene…and he was so filled with feelings about it he didn’t know what to do. Beth reached over without looking at Daryl took his hand gently under the table and Daryl hid a small smile.

“I…” she moved her phone a bit as if it would explain something. “I think we need to have the talk.” Her voice was soft, almost a whisper, and she paled even more (he didn’t think that was possible.)

“Ok. So talk…” when she just looked up at him, eyes startled, everything clicked and he felt his stomach sink. “You think…”

“I don’t know. I just keep counting and it’s coming up late…I’m over a week late. The last time was just before Christmas.”

“But we’ve been careful.” He supplied, and instantly felt like an ass. He knew, just as well as she did, that careful wasn’t 100%. Everything had a chance to fail…and all it took was once. “What do we do?” She bit her lip and shifted helplessly. “Do y’have anythin’ to tell for sure?”

“No…” She said softly. She needed a hug. She needed to feel him there with her, reassuring and solid, to tell her she wasn’t alone in this. As if reading her mind, his arms slipped around her and pressed her against his chest. She heard his heart, thumping quickly in his chest, matching hers. Even as her stomach churned and knotted, and her heart thumped rapidly in her own chest, she felt the tension leave her shoulders. She felt more at peace. As long as Daryl was there…she’d never be alone in this.

“Well, let’s go get somethin’ so we can figure it out for sure.” His voice rumbled into her hair. Daryl didn’t know how he was doing it, but the calm that sounded in his voice was nothing compared to the wild frantic fear that filled him more and more with each passing second. What the hell did he know about being a dad?

Beth nodded into his chest before pulling away gently to grab her keys and wallet. Without thinking about it too much, he reached out and snagged her hand, giving it a light squeeze. Still grimy and dirty from work Daryl marched back to his truck, letting Beth into the passenger side and climbing back in himself. As the engine roared to life he heard Beth whisper something that he didn’t quite catch. His questioning gaze fell on her as her cheeks reddened.

“Can we not go to the supermarket around the corner? Everyone shops there…and you know how talk travels in a small town.” He realized, with a thick swallow, that Beth was just as unsettled and bursting with nerves as he was. Trying valiantly to shove down the panic clawing its way up his throat he reached over and squeezed her shoulder, tugging her a little closer to wrap her in an awkward hug.

“We’ll go where ever y’want t’go.” He knew that if this turned out to be positive, Beth would want to tell her family first before the town gossip mill did it for her. She gave him a quick jerky nod.

“The pharmacy across town is a little further away, but not many people go there.” She said quickly. He knew exactly what she was talking about and set the truck in that direction.

When they got inside the pharmacy, it was like Daryl’s mind went blank. He had no idea where to find anything, and he was not about to ask. He watched, helplessly, as Beth moved around the aisles. When she paused and delicately reached out, before retracting her hand again. Daryl walked up behind her, his eyes landing on the different boxes. He watched as she seemed to freeze, and he could almost see the wheels in her mind turning. His large rough hand came up and clasped hers. “We’ll do this t’gether.” His deep voice rumbled. Her big blue eyes peered up at him before a soft, timid smile crept to her lips.

“Together.” She said softly before grabbing a box of tests off the shelves. She looked at it and felt a heaviness in the pit of her stomach. She couldn’t understand, (well really she could, but they’d been so careful) and her mind was racing a mile a minute. She always wanted a family, a baby of her own, but she’d always pictured it happening somewhat differently. She took a deep breath, curling her fingers around his hand and tugging him quietly towards the cashier.

They paid for their purchase quickly, neither one making much small talk when the friendly cashier asked them how they were doing, and then made their way back into the truck. The drive back to the apartment was one of the longest drives either one of them had ever experienced. The heaviness in Beth’s stomach started to churn, the closer they got to the apartment and she felt like she was going to be sick. In all the time they’d been together, they’d never really discussed kids. It wasn’t on their radar and now (she wanted kids, but has always assumed that was a conversation they would work in to…in the future). Right now, it felt like they were spiraling down the rabbit hole with absolutely nothing to anchor them.

Daryl shut off the truck, parking in front of the apartment building and looked over at Beth. He could tell she was rattled. She was pale, and lost in her own thought, her eyes glassy and glazed as she tried to work through things in her mind. It gave Daryl a chance to try to sort his spinning thoughts. Beth could be pregnant…what did that mean? He knew what it meant on the surface. She was going to have a baby (IF she was pregnant, that is) but he didn’t know anything more than that. Did she want kids? Did she want kids with him? Was she ashamed? What if she didn’t want it? Would she carry it and give it up? Would she…get rid of it? His head started to spin. No, even if Beth didn’t want kids (which he thought was unlikely) she wouldn’t just get rid of it. He knew her at least that much, to know that would be a non-option for her. Her eyes focused and she looked around the parking lot before snapping her gaze to him. “Ready?” She almost whispered in the small space of the cab of the truck. The uneasy feeling in Daryl’s stomach intensified. He nodded once and watched as she got out, following closely behind her as they trudged up the stairs.

He slid his key into the lock on the front door and was startled by how loud it sounded in the muted hallway. He shuffled in quietly behind her, watching as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other before blushing and motioning with her hand. “I’m gonna…” She trailed off, her cheeks tinting pink. “I’ll be right back.” He nodded and watched as she disappeared back into the bedroom.

Daryl flopped onto the couch, wishing with all his might that he had a cold beer to take the edge off. He watched as Beth emerged from the back and his back went ram-rod straight. “Well?” She gave him a soft, small smile.

“It takes a few minutes to process.” She sat down next to him, sitting daintily on the edge of the cushion.

“So what do we do now?”

“Talk?” Her voice came out weakly. She looked over at him and he nodded. She felt the cold seep into her stomach. “So…if I am…” She paused, unable to say the word just yet. It made it too real, and real was really, really scary. “What does that mean? I mean, for us?” He looked at her.

“Beth, I’m here for you. Whether you are or ain’t…that’s not gonna change.” He rumbled out. “Do…” He stopped and looked away before dragging his eyes back up to her. “Do y’even want kids?” She nodded.

“Yeah. I’ve always wanted kids, but…it’s not something we’ve ever talked about.”

“Well, I think maybe we should talk ‘bout it.” He felt his tension ease a little when a small smile ghosted her lips and she nodded. “So, you want kids…” He started.

“Do you?” He thought for a moment.

“I don’t know.” He looked at her, and hated that she seemed so pained by that answer. “I mean, it ain’t like’ve been given a good example. I wouldn’t know the first thing about takin’ care of a kid. I think I’d be a shit dad.” His voice was gruff, but he was being honest. He’d be lying if he said the thought of having a little girl who looked just like Beth didn’t scare the crap out of him.

“No you wouldn’t.” She took his hand and he squeezed gently. Beth looked at him, the fear swirling around inside her seeming to calm a little. It helped knowing that he didn’t hate the idea of kids (just the idea of being a dad scared him.) “You may not have had a great example when you were little, but my daddy was amazing and he’d be right there to help you every step of the way.” She paused and realized it seemed like she was confirming his fear. That he’d be shit without someone’s help. “But that’s beside the point. You are so caring. You remember when I was sick…and you came over and took care of me, just because a friend asked you to check on me?” He nodded once. “That’s what being a dad is like. You take care of someone because they can’t and you care. You’d love your kids more than you could even imagine. You know how I know that? Because you’re a good man.” He just stared at her.

“Y’Really think that?” She beamed at him.

“I know it.” He took her hands in his.

“I love you, babygirl.” He rumbled and she smiled at him.

“I love you too.” She stroked his hand with her thumb idly.

“When did y’picture havin’ kids?” Her eyes got wide as she thought.

“Not right now. Later in life. After school, I guess.” She shrugged.

“D’ya ever picture havin’ kids with me?” He didn’t know why he asked that. He didn’t know why her answer mattered so much to him (yes…he did. He knew exactly why.) He watched as her eyes widened even more, and she paled before flushing pink. She started to open her mouth to answer, but the shrill ring of the phone alarm sounded. She jumped up, staring at her phone and then up at him.

“Time to check…did…” She looked down again. “Did you wanna come look too? Or do you want me to just tell you?” He stood slowly, following behind her as they made their way to the bathroom. The little stick was sitting on the bathroom counter…and it felt like a heavy weight was pressing down on him. He took her hand and looked at her.

“What ever it says, I’m here…y’ain’t gotta do this alone.” She smiled softly at him and grabbed the stick. She didn’t look at it but walked up to him and with a deep breath moved her hand to see the little read out. One line meant no, and two lines meant yes. She took a little breath and studied the little screen that firmly showed one little blue line. “Well?”

“I’m not.” She said softly, and was torn with the conflicted emotions that bombarded her all at once. “Here…look.” She held the stick up for him to examine. She bit on her lip. Part of her wanted to sigh and giggle in relief, and part of her was surprised at the amount of sadness that coursed through her. She didn’t realize a part of her had wanted this; had wanted this (nonexistent) baby.

Daryl studied the perfect single line and then watched Beth’s face change as different thoughts assaulted her. He wrapped her in a hug. “Y’know…” he rumbled softly, the nerves swirling around in him serving to clog his throat for a second. “Later, kids with you, might not be so bad…” He hugged her, nestling his face in her hair. The grin that split Beth’s face was blinding.