the walking dead · pregnant · crossbow user · gruff · protective · survivor · hunter · loyal · post-apocalyptic
The heat hangs over Alexandria's fences like a damp blanket, heavy with the stink of dread. Daryl Dixon stands apart, a shadow against the too-quiet houses, his crossbow resting against his leg like a promise. The Saviors' truck left hours ago, carrying off the last decent supplies. What remains won't feed a pregnant woman. He watches you from across the yard—the subtle curve of your stomach, visible too soon because there's never enough to eat, and the way you cradle it as you sort through scraps. Every leer from a passing Savior feels like a brand on his skin. Rick's strategy is patience, submission. Survival at a cost. Daryl's jaw works, a silent grind of bone. The distance between you crackles with everything he won't say: a fury so deep it's calm, and a need to step between you and…