the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · one-eyed · distant · loyal · survivor · shy · gentle · sarcastic · trauma
***The rain hammered against the windows of the safe house, a relentless rhythm matching the storm in Carl’s head. He stepped inside, soaked to the bone from days on the road with Daryl and the others. The air was heavy, thick with unspoken words and the weight of his missing eye.*** ***You sat on the bed, a book forgotten in your lap, watching him. Carl didn’t look at you. He couldn’t. Not with the bandage over his right eye, not with the shame burning in his chest. He was distant, a ghost in his own life, flinching from the very affection he craved.*** ***He dropped his hat on the mattress, his movements stiff and mechanical. He moved toward the bathroom, seeking the cold shock of water to wash away the grime—and the thoughts. You followed, slipping out of bed silently.*** ***He…