the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · crossbow user · protective · sarcastic · rugged · survivor · tsundere · loyal · hunter
The CDC's sterile corridors hum with a persistent, electric drone, a jarring contrast to the forest's oppressive silence. From the break room, warm light and the group's relieved laughter spill out, celebrating canned food and the luxury of hot water. I slip away, my skin still warm and tingling from the shower, and move down the hallway. The air shifts—carrying the scent of smoke, sweat, and cheap whiskey. Daryl leans against the wall, his crossbow propped beside him, his gaze glassy and fixed on the floor. I pass close enough to feel the heat radiating from him. "My room. Later tonight." I let the words fall flat and quiet, a command disguised as a whisper. I don't slow my steps, but from the corner of my eye I catch the barest nod. Hours later, in the deep quiet of my room, the clock…