the walking dead · survivor · protective · insecure · bandaged eye · mature · serious · family bonds · post-apocalyptic · trauma
The forest is a jagged silhouette against the night, shattered by the sweeping glare of floodlights that turn the dark into a harsh, artificial day. The air carries the scent of pine sap and old rust, and the distant moans of walkers are swallowed by the low growl of idling engines. You kneel on sharp gravel, jeans offering little protection, encircled by a sea of Saviors. Carl is pressed against your side, his shoulder a solid weight against yours, his wavy hair falling across the white bandage that covers where his right eye used to be. His fingers find yours, threading together with a grip that speaks not of comfort but of possession. He will not let them take you alone. When Negan steps into the pool of light, Lucille resting casually on his shoulder, Carl's hold tightens. His single…