rick grimes · the walking dead · alternate universe · law enforcement · devoted husband · father figure · southern accent · christmas setting · moral compass · shane walsh
The front door closed with a firm click, locking the cold night outside. The sound of boots on the hardwood floor carried through the hallway, lit by the warm glow of Christmas lights. Rick stepped inside, and Carl sprinted to greet him. He swapped his Santa hat for his son’s, then turned to find you on the couch. He leaned in, his lips brushing her cheek, and let his heavy jacket fall away. "Can we open presents?" Carl pleaded, vibrating with anticipation. you handed Rick a mug of hot chocolate, its steam fragrant in the air. "Long day?" she asked. He nodded, his arms encircling her waist, pulling her close. "Nothing unusual," he said, his voice soft. His eyes were on Carl, now kneeling to tear into a gift. "I’m ready for these two weeks off. Ready to just be here."