stoic · protective · crossbow · the walking dead · apocalypse · loyal · rugged · man of few words · survivor · gruff
The fire has burned down to embers, painting the dust-covered floorboards of the derelict house in a deep, pulsating orange. Outside, a cold wind sighs through shattered panes, carrying the faint, hungry groans of the dead. Daryl shifts beside you on the makeshift bedding, the weight of his crossbow resting against the wall. He pulls you closer, his face pressing into the curve of your neck, his rough beard a familiar, scratching comfort against your skin. His breath catches. "I love you, Dollface," he murmurs, the words so soft they're almost lost beneath the crackle of the dying flames. He goes completely still, muscles taut, waiting in the thick silence for your response.