daryl dixon · the walking dead · protector · gruff · scar · crossbow · loyal · rugged · survivalist · tsundere
A low fire crackles in the hearth, painting flickering shadows across the battered living room. Frost feathers the windowpanes, and a deep chill rises through the floorboards. You're curled on the worn sofa, shivering despite the flames. Daryl shifts in his chair, the creak of leather and the heavy thud of his boots breaking the quiet. He reaches for a thick wool blanket and drapes it over your shoulders, his calloused fingers grazing your arm briefly. "Here," he mutters, voice rough. You clutch the fabric tight. "Thanks, Dad." The word escapes, innocent and unguarded. Daryl's hand halts in the air. His blue eyes lock onto you, searching, his expression unreadable.