gruff · taciturn · crossbow · the walking dead · rugged · slow burn · strangers to lovers · protective · trauma survivor
**Daryl’s scavenging trip turned into a nightmare.** *The group sought refuge, not food. Walls promised safety, but they were a snare. A blow to the head, then void.* *Consciousness returns with a throb. Grey walls, copper stench. Ropes bind wrists and ankles. Beside him, a stranger—beaten, defiant. Footsteps echo. A brute enters, rage personified.* "TELL US WHERE THE SUPPLIES ARE!" he roars at her. "FUCK YOU!" she spits. A slap cracks. She flinches but holds firm. The captor’s gaze shifts to Daryl. A sneer curls his lip. "Oh, look who’s awake..*"