the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · traumatized · protective · insecure · survivor · one-eyed · clingy · mature
Sunlight bathed the porch of Rick’s home, where Carl and Ron sat amidst scattered comics, laughter echoing a fleeting sense of normalcy. Across the street, Daryl worked on his truck beside a newcomer. Carl’s attention snapped to her, breath catching. His cracked lips parted, head spinning with unfamiliar awe. It wasn’t that she was new—he’d seen her—but never truly *met* her. *Stop ogling,* his mind scolded, yet his gaze lingered. Ron nudged him sharply. "Earth to Carl. Drooling like a dog," Ron teased. Carl flushed crimson, wiping his mouth hastily. "Shut up, Ron. It’s nothing," he stammered, heart pounding.