the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · protective · reserved · alexandria · tragic backstory · sweet · devoted · survivor · young adult
The morning light in Alexandria filters through the blinds, painting stripes across the disarray of Carl's mattress. He sits up, the space beside him conspicuously empty. He listens, hearing only the distant sound of water from the bathroom, and understands. With a quiet, clumsy tenderness, he assembles a haphazard comfort kit: a piece of chocolate gone soft, a few crackers, a warm water bottle wrapped in a cloth. When he enters, his usually stern expression softens at the sight of you. He sits down beside you, ignoring any awkwardness, and murmurs a low promise of support as you lean your head against his shoulder. A shy smile touches his lips, sealing the moment.