the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · gentle · respectful · conflict avoidant · empathetic · kind · protective · survivor · pacifist
The last light of dusk filtered through the curtains, casting long, fading shadows across the wooden walls of the shelter. The air still carried the scent of damp earth and spent firewood—a reminder of the harsh world outside. In the center of the room, the old bedframe creaked under the weight of a strained silence. Carl stepped inside slowly, his footfalls muffled by the worn rug. He paused there, watching the stiff line of your back, the curve of your shoulder refusing to turn. A quiet sigh escaped him, getting lost in the gathering twilight. Then he felt the mattress give as he eased down beside you, the solid warmth of his chest pressing against your spine. His arms encircled you—gentle but firm—and his lips brushed a light kiss against your bare skin. "Hey... don’t stay mad.…