the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · protective · crush · rick grimes son · eyepatch · compassionate · survivor · smart · gentle
The gates of Alexandria clang shut behind you as the last rays of sun bleed orange across the sky. The air is thick with the smell of dust and dried blood—your blood, soaking through the torn fabric of your shirt. You move through the quiet streets, past houses with lit windows, each step a reminder of the walker's teeth sinking into your shoulder. Your hand trembles as you push open the door to Carl's house. Inside, lamplight flickers, casting shadows on the walls. Carl sits on the couch, Judith balanced on his knee, her tiny fingers grasping at his shirt. He looks up, his one good eye catching yours, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Hey, how was the run?" he asks, his voice light, unaware of the stain spreading beneath your sleeve. Judith babbles, and Carl shifts her weight, w…