This took so much longer than I wanted it to. I got writer block a good bit. Now, remember the things I have changed, so you don't get confused. Most of the changers were in chapter one, so reread that if need be :)
I know while I was typing this chapter there was a big hub-bub over M-Rated stories. I'm telling ya'll now, I'm not going anywhere. They will have to drag me off here kicking and screaming. I won't change my stories or what I write. So, if I get kicked out of here you can find me at AO3 under TheSparrow93.
Enjoy ya'll! :D
Glenn made his way to the back of the RV, ignoring worried questions and pitied stares. Harley was sitting in his basinet with his squirrel and a small ball someone must be found in the cars. Baby blue eyes looked up at him as he entered the bedroom of the RV. Glenn smiled despite everything of the day as that little mouth smiled at him. He placed the crossbow on the bed to the right of the basinet before sitting on the other. He ran his fingers through soft brown hair; it was getting thicker all the time.
"Hey sweetie," Glenn said places a kiss to Harley's forehead, "Having fun?" he asked as the infant went back to playing only getting a giggle as answer. Glenn sat watching him entertain himself. He couldn't help the empty feeling that was growing in his chest. Early that afternoon he so believed that Daryl was fine that he was coming back. Now he had an ownerless crossbow and a red stained plush toy. He didn't know what he felt anymore. He wanted Daryl to come back, no he wanted him to be back but he didn't know how plausible of an idea that was anymore.
He sat like that for hours. He didn't come out when camp had been set up or dinner was done. Dale brought him a plate with some rice and peas but Glenn just picked at it. He feed Harley, changed him into a fresh diaper and onesie. It was about eight, give or take, when Harley fell asleep. Glenn sat up watching his son sleep for hours, his eyes roaming over that tiny face that looked so familiar. Glenn ran a finger over the small mole under his son's eye. He knew Harley was going to turn out just like Daryl. He would be a little Asian redneck, the thought of it making Glenn smile sorrowfully.
He didn't know when he fell asleep but he knew he didn't get much. He awoke to bussel outside the RV. He stretched before checking on Harley. Once in a fresh diaper and clothes he carried him outside. He didn't feel much better, his stomach was still in knots but he knew he couldn't hold up in the RV. When he stepped out he could see the surprise in everyone's faces.
"Morning, Glenn," Dale said cautiously, Glenn pulled a small smile. He moved over to where a fire had been set up off the road. He accepted a plate from Maggie before settling down to eat. He sat cross legged so Harley could sit in the curve of his legs. He still just picked at the food but ate more than the night before. He was surprised when a bottle was extended to him. He looked up to see Carol holding it out to him.
"You're not eating much, so feeding him will just drain your energy. I fixed a bottle, please take it." Carol said with a hopeful but slightly miserable look on her face.
"Okay, thanks." Glenn said taking the bottle, she was right after all. He felt slightly bad about his word from the previous day. It wasn't totally her fault and even with her there she wasn't armed. She couldn't have protected Harley, so either way Daryl would have had to do the same, "Carol, I'm sorry." Glenn said as he started feed Harley the bottle. He didn't like it as much so getting him started was always a challenge but he gets use to it after a moment.
"I'm sorry too." She said running a hand through his hair in a motherly gesture. Her face softened and he knew they were okay again. Once breakfast was cleaned up Rick started making plans.
"I'll take Shane out to where we found the toy. If he was looking for a place to hunker down for the night it was probably close by." Rick said looking over the map he had spread across one of the cars hoods. Glenn watched him pointing out possible places with Harley seated on his hip.
"What about the rest of us?" Andrea asked while Rick rolled up the map.
"We can't have everyone out in the woods beating every bush they see." Shane said from Rick's side.
"Exactly, Shane and I know how to vaguely track. None of us are like D-" Rick cut himself off to cast Glenn a quick glance.
"No of us can track like Daryl. We are just shit out of luck he is the one missing." Glenn said finishing what Rick wanted to say. The group nodded, all feeling the pain those words held. Rick and Shane started getting what they would need together. Glenn moved over to where they had set up folding chairs next to the RV where Lori sat resting. He still sympathized with her, it sucked the further along you get, especially in the heat. The guys were almost finished getting their gear together when they heard something.
"What is that?" Maggie asked the sound was coming from up the highway.
"It sounds like a monster truck." Carl offered as every moved to look. After a moment a large truck came into view. It was driving down the other side of the highway, only having to maneuverer around a few cars on the mostly empty side. It looked like a military issues Hummer. It stopped when it reached the group. The windows were tented darkly so no one could see inside the cab. The door swung open causing everyone to flinch. A tall man stepped out. He looked to be in his forties, he was thin and lanky. His hair line was receding and he looked like he hadn't bathed in months, but they all looked like that nowadays.
"Got a problem?" He asked as he shut the truck door. His voice was high, like he had been kicked in the balls too many times in his life.
"Stop!" Rick commanded leveling the python at the guy.
"Whoa! Stay calm, I aint packing, left my piece in the truck." He said raising his hands, "Names Al, just thought you folks could use some help."
"Okay Al, why are you on the road?" Rick asked not lowering his gun.
"Getting supplies from the town a few miles up." Al offered. There had been a town about six miles back.
"Where is your camp?" Shane asked from Rick's side.
"About a mile back yonder. We are up in an old picnic area off the highway." He answered.
"Are you lying? You better tell the truth because I'm really not in a generous mood today." Rick asked with a look that had no nonsense.
"I aint lyin'." He said solidly. Rick nodded lowering his gun. "Now, what's got all your panties in a twist?" Al asked dropping his hands after running one through thinning black hair. The group exchanged looks, silently deciding they could trust this man, he was out numbered and if his gun really was in the truck out armed.
"We lost a man yesterday, in the woods. We are about to go look for him." Dale answered for the group.
"Shit, that's a damn shame. How did ya lose him?" He asked leaning back against his truck. Another look was exchanged.
"There was a herd of walkers. He drew them away to protect his son." Rick said nodding over to Harley who was staring in wonder at the new comer.
"God damn shame. So, that the guys boy? This guy another Asian?" Al asked stepping forward to get a look at Harley, his dark eyes narrowing in scrutiny. Glenn pressed him closer to his body.
"No, he is white." T-Dog answered casually, it was the truth.
"Then why does this guy's son look part chink?" He asked taking in the babies features.
"Because he is my son too and he is half-Korean." Glenn spat the words out like daggers. No one is going to call his son that. It took a minute before his words settled in then they clicked in the guy's head.
"Fuck, it's one of them genuine male pregnancies. Thought that was just tabloid bull shit." Al laughed as he looked Harley over again.
"We don't have time for this. What do you want?" Shane asked stepping next to Glenn, putting himself between the two.
"I don't want nothing but I might be able to help." He said putting his hands in his pockets.
"We don't need it." Shane snapped at him.
"Oh really? Any of ya'll hunters? Trackers? Hell any of ya'll ever catch anything?" He asked snidely. When he got no answer he continued, "Then ya'll aint gonna find shit. Now, I got a guy back at camp knows the woods better than hooker knows her corner. He could find your guy in no time." Al said with a smirk.
"No thanks." Rick said firmly.
"Well, that's a damn shame. Well, good luck. Hope you at least find some of him." Al started back to his truck.
"Do you mean it?" Glenn called out to him, "You swear this guy can find him?"
"Stack a' bibles." He said turning back to them.
"Rick, it's worth a shot." Lori said seeing the desperation in Glenn's face, "If it's just two guys we will be safe. We out-number them." Rick thought it over.
"Fine but don't screw with us." Rick said harshly.
"You got it boss. I'll just go get him. Give me about twenty." He said before hopping in his truck. He turned it back the way he came and was gone.
"Can we trust him?" Maggie asked wringing her hands.
"We don't have much choice. He is right; we don't stand a chance finding Daryl. Maybe this guy has a better shot at it." Shane said sounding unsure but hell, they all were unsure about everything at that point.
Glenn settled Harley down for his nap. After a nice breakfast, Harley ate like a king compared to everyone else, and meeting a new face the little guy was tired. Glenn watched him snuggle with his squirrel before a familiar sound had him exiting the RV.
"That's a motorcycle." Glenn said watching the road with the rest. He was right; a large motorcycle came into view with a standard pick up trialing it. Glenn saw Rick and Shane tighten their holds on their weapons as the bike drew closer. The rider killed the engine then got up swiping long legs over the machine. Glenn felt his stomach tighten and his blood run cold. A small man hopped out of the truck to join the biker. He was maybe a little shorter than Glenn with red hair and freckles. The two men walked up to the group.
"Damn, aint this a kick in the ass?" the large biker asked with a laugh, the smaller man looked confused.
"Funny, Merle." Shane sniped at the large man. Glenn hadn't felt the desire to vomit so strongly since he was pregnant. Blue eyes scanned the group, the smirk everyone remembered plastered on his face.
"Never thought I'd meet up with you folks again. Who did ya'll dumbasses lose? Heard it was someone with a part gook baby." He asked his eyes doing a head count. Well, he hadn't changed much Glenn noticed. Merle looked over the group another time before his face took on a new look, a scowl replacing his smirk. "Where is little Darlenna?"
"That's what you are supposed to find out." Shane said harshly.
"You fuck heads lost him?" Merle asked coldly. No one answered. "Fuck this, aint my damn job to go looking for people." Merle started back to his bike leaving the smaller guy behind.
"I'll help. I don't look like must but I'm pretty good at hunting. Use to hunt all the time for fun. I'm Kevin by the way." The small guy offered hopefully. Glenn had faith in the kid but he knew the larger man was better at this.
"Merle please." Glenn called after the man, Merle stopped in his tracks, "I know you don't owe us anything. After what happened we should be so lucky that you don't blast our heads off…but please we need your help. We can't find him alone." Glenn knew he was begging.
"What's it to you chink?" Merle said turning.
"Think about what you said, a half Korean baby." Glenn said walking up to the larger man, the noise from Rick's throat an ignored warning. Merle took what he said in then his face twisted into an even crueler scowl.
"You tellin' me Daryl had a kid with you?" Merle asked clenching his fists. Wow, the Dixon brothers were really accepting of the guys having baby's thing.
"Yes." Glenn whispered he glanced at those fisted worriedly. Merle just stood there breathing harshly for a moment.
"Well, it aint like I didn't know his preference. He was a dumb fuck for thinking I didn't see right through him but with you. Fuck." Merle said unclenching his fists to run a hand through his light hair. Glenn could see the thick scars on his wrist, the sight making his stomach clench.
"Will you please help? If not for the group, do it for Daryl." Glenn said softly, Merle shot him a look, "I know a lot of things Merle, not everything but a lot. I know he loves you and honestly, I can see why in some ways but in others I can't. He went looking for you; you can do the same for him."
"I'll think about it." Merle said looking to the side. Glenn couldn't believe him. Think about it? Daryl never thought about going after Merle, he just acted. Glenn huffed before stalking back to the RV; he couldn't take this right now. A pissy big brother was not something he wanted to deal with.
He knew they needed Merle to find Daryl; the worst part was Merle knew that too. Glenn plopped down on the bed raking his fingers through his hair. His eyes fell on the crossbow across from him. How much longer did they have to find him? Realistically, it wasn't very long. After Sophia everyone knew being alone was practically a death sentence. Though, Merle had been alone too for some amount of time, right? He managed to make, so if anyone could keep surviving it was a Dixon. Glenn nearly jumped as the RV door slammed open. He jerked his eyes to the floor when the big redneck stormed in.
"You got a problem chink?" Merle asked as he entered the back room.
"I'm Korean and what if I do?" Glenn snapped at Merle. His eyes flicked to Harley to make sure he hadn't been disturbed.
"You got some mouth on you." Merle huffed at the smaller man. Honestly, Glenn didn't know where this courage was coming from, he had just had enough.
"I'm not in mood for this Merle. Either help us or fuck off." Glenn cradled his head in his hands; he couldn't handle this right now. It hurt to look at Merle. He looked so much like Daryl and he was still ashamed of having a hand in leaving him on that roof.
"Why should I help?" Merle asked crossing his arms over his chest.
"Because for the first time in his life, Daryl actually needs you. I know how little you were there for him growing up. Always in juvie then the army then jail. You never really were there for him. Sure, you taught him how to hunt and everything but you never once acted like he mattered." Glenn took a breath he looked up at Merle to judge his reaction, his face was neutral. "He is your little brother, I don't know what that means to you but it means a lot to everyone else. You mean a lot to him. He has missed you, even though he would never say it, it's in his eyes."
"Ahh Darlenna missed me. How cute." Merle said sarcastically.
"You missed him too; it's in your eyes. You want to go find him, you're just afraid to muck up your reputation as an uncaring asshole. For once think about him and not yourself." Glenn said watching the older man, when he got no reaction he looked away from him. His eyes fell on the crossbow again, it just didn't look right laying there like that it belonged on Daryl's back, in his hands. Merle followed his eyes and couldn't stop his own eyes from widening.
"Must've been in a real pinch to leave that behind." Merle said off handedly, "He's had it since he was ten."
"When you bought it for him. It was half off because the store was going out of business. You thought he would like it." Glenn said recited the story as Daryl had told him. He had only just gotten the redneck to open up to him.
"He loves the damn thing. Hard to believe he told yuh that story." Merle said looking Glenn in the eye.
"He has started to tell me a lot. I want to know everything about him." Glenn said looking back into the rednecks eyes. Merle looked away, and then glanced down at the basinet.
"So, a kid huh?" Merle asked looking the baby over.
"Yeah, a boy." Glenn said reaching over to run a hand over Harley's hair.
"What's his name?" Merle asked nonchalantly but Glenn could tell he really wanted to know.
"Harley." Glenn answered.
"He got your last name? Like Ho or somthin'." Glenn couldn't help chuckling at the questions.
"No, his name is Dixon. He is one after all." Merle nodded slowly. "He is your nephew Merle. The same blood in his veins runs in yours, and Daryl's."
"And yours." Merle didn't sound cruel, it sounded for like an honest observation.
"Is that so bad?" Glenn asked.
"Guess not anymore." He said with a shrug. Glenn knew it, Merle wasn't that bad. He was just stuck in his ways, ways he never knew any different from. Glenn looked down at Harley as the baby stirred. Hazy eyes opened, looking around to take in his surroundings, he really was like Daryl. When still unfocused eyes landed on Merle he squealed. Harley tugged himself up to the end of the basinet.
"deh deh deh." Harley babbled reaching his hands out to the large redneck. Glenn gasped, that was what he did when he saw Daryl.
"What is he doin'?" Merle asked confused.
"He thinks you're Daryl." Glenn said his eyes welling up. Merle glanced at him but Glenn jerked his head to the side, not wanting his unshed tears to be seen by him.
"Sorry kid, I aint your pop," Merle said reaching out his hand for Harley to grab. Little fingers wrapping around calloused fingers and scarred wrist. Glenn choked back a sob at the sight.
"Merle please." Glenn whispered he looked up to see the older man's questioning gaze. "I can't do this alone. I can't raise him. He needs both of us. I can't-I can't do this whole fucked up world alone." Glenn knew he looked pathetic, crying like a girl to Merle.
"Fine." That was all he said, just one word as he pulled his hand from Harley's grasp. He turned without another word and left the RV. Glenn sat in shock but couldn't help smiling.
"Alright, ya'll are damn lucky I'm in a givin mood." Merle said stalking out of the RV. "Kevin you're with me. Everyone else should head to our camp."
"Why are you helping?" Andrea asked doubtful of how giving Merle Dixon could be.
"Aint like I got anythin better to do. Grimes weren't it?" Merle said walking up to Rick, who nodded. "Our camp is a mile or so up the highway. There is a sign on the side of the road for the turn off. There are five men and a few women and kids. Ya'll will fit right in."
"Why should we go to your camp?" Shane asked crossing his arms over his chest.
"For one it aint in the middle of the damn open highway. Another is medicine. We aint got no doc but our first aid supply is packed." Merle said glaring at the ex-cop.
"Rick, it is probably best. Our medical supplies are quite low; I could do more for Daryl with better supplies." Herschel said getting a raised eyebrow from Merle, "I'm a vet; I know a thing or two about medical care." Merle just nodded.
"Alright, everyone goes to their camp but I'm going with you guys." Rick said firmly, "Shane you take care of everyone." No one argued for once. Everything was packed up and ready to go in minutes. Rick hugged Lori and Carl before they got in the Chevy and the cars were off to the camp.
"Alright, ladies. Daylights a wastin'." Merle said leading the way into the woods. Rick hopped he made the right choice.
Merle was really good at this. When they reached the spot they found the toy he crouched to get a better view of the surrounding grounds, his eyes moving around taking everything in.
"Lucky you damn cops didn't fuck up his trail." Merle said pointing out a trail that was barely visible, they had missed it the previous day. "His trail is pretty good. But there were walkers and by the look of it maybe three or four." Rick couldn't see any of the trails he was pointing out, even the guy Kevin looked to be having trouble seeing them.
Merle started after the tracks his brother had left. His foot falls were completely silent; even though he was huge he made no noise. Rick was struggling to keep his moves silent, from what he saw of the Dixon brothers this had to be in their blood. Merle pointed out some blood on a bush and covering the leaf covered ground. It was like his eyes saw everything, like nothing was getting past him, Rick could respect that. After a half hour or so Merle stopped.
"His trail is getting messy." Merle said with an odd look on his face.
"What does that mean?" Kevin asked.
"Until now his steps were straight, even. Now they are swaying, like he is stumbling. Plus, right here, looks like he was lying down." Merle said scrutinizing the tracks, "Plus, the walker tracks went off his course some time back. They don't just stop like that, aint in their nature to pass up a meal."
"What are you getting at?" Rick asked, hoping Merle wasn't thinking what he was.
"That we might not be doing a rescue no more." Merle said then continued ahead, not leaving time for more questions. Rick wouldn't believe that, Daryl was fine he had to be. They pushed ahead, when the sound of flowing water reached their ears. It got louder the longer they followed the tracks. They broke through the trees to come up on a small creek.
"Look!" Kevin said pointing to a large tree by the water. Slumped against the trunk was what looked like a body. They started toward it cautiously; with the shade of the leaves it was hard to see the figure. When they got within a few yards Rick felt his stomach drop.
"Daryl." He breathed. He was taken off guard when Merle barreled forward.
"Darleena get your ass up." He commanded. He reached his brothers side and he hated to admit that the sight of him had his heart dropping. Daryl's shirt was off, torn up to serve as bandages for what looked to be one hell of an injury on his back. He was covered in dirt and blood. "Come on, get movin."
He didn't move. Merle leaned forward, unwanted relief filling his chest when he heard him breathing but it was ragged. He saw him jerk. It was a weak twitch but it was something. He smacked his arm, "Darleena!"
It was weak but it was enough to get a smile on Rick's face and even Merle's, "f-fuck…..y…you."
When they pulled up to the camp it wasn't surprising that they were greeted with guns. Glenn had Harley tight to his chest as they were questioned.
"Why ya'll here?" Asked a huge man, even bigger than Merle. He looked almost six and a half feet tall. His head was shaved and had a bushy full beard. He looked like a bear turned human.
"Merle sent us here. Said it would be safer than the road." Shane answered obviously not threatened.
"I know these folk, they harmless, well mostly." Al said coming to the front. The large bear guy holstered his gun nodding. "Come on, get comfy."
"Thank you." Dale said as they followed him. The camp wasn't that big. The clearing still held about five picnic tables. Four cars and the large truck were parked at the entrance of the grounds. About eight tents were sent open throughout. There was a small restroom building off to the side.
"Well, let's get intro out of the way." Al said leading them to a large fire pit, "Sit sit! Well, ya'll know I'm Al and you have met Merle and Kevin. Go on guys, say ya'lls hellos."
"Harvey." The large bear man said.
"I'm Steve and this is Adam." An average looking guy said with another blandly average guy next to him. He sounded Northern but he didn't seem like a threat.
"Mick." A harsh looking black man said, he didn't look too friendly and the two pistols strapped to his legs didn't look to inviting.
"I'm Alice," A pretty blonde girl said, "Harvey is my boyfriend." He was almost twice her size, how that worked out Glenn didn't want to know.
"My names Pat," A woman with a kind face said, she pulled a red haired small girl from behind her legs, "This is Kayla, Kevin is my son also."
"It's nice to meet you all. I'm Shane. This is Dale, Andrea, Carol, Lori, Carl, Herschel, Maggie, Beth, T-Dog and Glenn. The little guy is Harley." Shane said gesturing to each person in turn.
They all chatted, mostly about nothing. Everyone crowded around the fire in lawn chairs and on logs set up around it. Glenn thought for the most part everyone was nice. After a while Harley started getting fussy, he was hungry. Glenn didn't want to burden them about having to make a bottle. "Can I use the restroom? I need to feed him." Glenn asked standing.
"Of course, I'll take you." Pat said getting up, Glenn thanked her. She lead him to the restroom, he entered the men's side while she waited at the door. It wasn't the cleanest but it wasn't terrible.
"I'll hold him for you, while you get set up." Pat said Glenn handed her his squirming infant. He was about to pull his shirt up when the door banged open. He turned to find Harvey standing in the door.
"Got the baby?" His voice was ominous. Pat ran past Glenn to stand behind the large man. Glenn started after her but a strong hand snatched his arm, stopping him.
"What are you doing?" Glenn demanded.
"I'm sorry, I'll keep him safe for you, I swear." She said with tears welling up in her eyes. He was about to ask her what she meant when something slammed into the back of his head, making consciousness impossible.
"Good to hear your voice." Rick said crouching next to him. Blue eyes struggled to open, unfocused and foggy.
"Rick?" Daryl managed to choke out.
"It's me, man." Rick lightly gripped his shoulder.
"Thought you was someone else." Daryl said trying to sit up.
"Like me baby brother?" Merle asked a laugh booming as Daryl jumped at his voice.
"M-Merle?" Daryl raised his eyes to his brother.
"Who else would have found your sorry ass?" Merle asked with a smirk.
"Good point." Daryl said struggling to get to his feet.
"I resent that." Rick said jokingly offering his shoulder to the redneck. He hefted the injured man up to his feet; Daryl had to lean heavily against him. "What happened?" Rick asked feeling the brittle dried blood on his back.
"A little ways in there was a gully, didn't see it until I was steppin right into it. Has some jagged ass rocks down the sides, fucked my back up pretty good." Daryl said trying to get his legs to listen to him.
"Looks like you lost a lot of blood. You even dropped your crossbow. How did you get away from the walkers?" Rick asked helping Daryl take a few testing steps.
"I ditched it. I didn't have any more arrows so it was jus dead weight. They followed me a while then I came up on a few deer; guess they liked the look of them more than me." Daryl was starting to get his legs back under his control.
"Why were you on the ground?" Merle asked out of nowhere, the older Dixon had barely spoken to the younger.
"Honestly, I passed out for a bit." Daryl said with a shrug which caused him to wince.
"Let's get you back; Glenn is out of his head right now." Rick said with a chuckle. Daryl shot him a glare then glanced over to his brother.
"I know about you and the kid, little brother." Merle said with a scoff.
"You know?" Daryl looked at him skeptically, "And you aint busting my head open?"
"Good lord, ya'll all think the same. I don't give a shit who you're fuckin Darleena. But I gotta say, even for a part slant-eye that baby a yours is darn cute." Merle said with an eye roll.
"You seem different." Rick said echoing the words in Daryl's head.
"Guess bein cuffed on a roof does that to ya." Merle quipped.
"Merle, I am sorry for that. I'm not sorry for cuffing you, I'm sorry we left you." Rick said stepping up to the older man, Daryl still using him for balance.
"I figured you were, at least the kid said ya'll were. It's in the past no point bitchin over it." Merle sounded sincere.
"Why did you leave? How did you leave?" Daryl asked getting some strength back, able to stand more on his own.
"Sun was fuckin with my head, had to get off the damn roof. So, I broke my hand. Slipped the cuffs and was gone. Didn't really expect you to come lookin for like the chink said you did." Merle said with a shrug while absentmindedly rubbing his wrist, "Hand healed up alright for the most part, can still shot a gun and jerk one out. No real loss." Daryl couldn't help chuckling at his brothers words, he was the same old Merle, he was just sober, Daryl could tell. Well, it isn't like there are drug dealers anymore, so it made sense that he was clean. His stash had been used up, all the painkillers and antibiotics used. The ecstasy and meth tossed. Merle would have to stay sober.
"Thanks big brother." Daryl said reaching out slapping him on the arm. Merle nodded, refraining from returning the slap, seeing as that alone might have made the younger brother topple.
"Let's get ya back to the wife and kids." Merle joked.
"Umm…."Kevin said after a few minutes, "So, that pretty Asian is your like, partner?" Everyone stopped in their tracks at his words. Daryl still using Rick for support turned hard eyes on the kid.
"What did you call him?" Daryl asked his voice hard.
"I didn't call him that, Al did." Kevin said putting his hands up in a defeated gesture.
"Why would Al say that?" Merle asked stepping toward the kid, Daryl question of who is Al ignored.
"H-H-He said that since you're leaving camp they had the perfect chance t-to umm….do like they use to." Kevin started wringing his hands.
"Like they use to?" Daryl asked but one look at his brother's face had him knowing it was nothing good.
"Are you serious?" Merle's face was dark.
"I'm sorry Merle; he was so excited because this is the first time you have left the camp in months." Kevin looked about to piss himself.
"What did they use to do?" Rick asked.
"We gotta go, ya'll are movin too slow." Merle said grabbed Daryl's other arm and tossing it over his shoulder. He started at a fast pace back to the highway. Daryl felt his legs protesting the quick motion but he didn't say anything.
"Merle?" Daryl didn't like the way his brother was acting.
"When I first found these guys they was the pillage and rape type. I don't like that shit, so I made em stop, well not the takin stuff part." Merle said as the highway came into view.
"They were scared of Merle. This guy shows up busted hand and detoxing. First time Harvey gave him lip Merle bloodied it. I use to beg them not to do that stuff, but they only left my mama and sister be 'cause I'm a descent hunter. Merle made them stop cold turkey." Kevin said nearly running to keep up.
"You sent them there Merle. Why would you do that? You knew how those people are." Rick asked helping get Daryl into the pick-up.
"I didn't think that just cause I'm gone for five fuckin minutes they would start that shit again." Merle growled in response.
"My wife and kid are there." Rick snapped at him.
"They are safe and so are the pretty girls. Al just wants the Asi-" Kevins words were cut off by a smack from Merle.
"Shut your damn mouth." Merle said shoving the kid in the driver's seat. He stomped over to his new bike but something caught his eye. "Holy shit." He said walking up to his old bike, he got on it and sighed. The keys were still in the ignition. The bike roared to life and Merle couldn't stop grinning.
"Give me the keys to your other one; I'll drive it back for you. I know the basics." Rick said holding out his hand. Merle tossed him the keys no questions asked, if he had his way, he wouldn't need them again. Wasting no more time Merle put the bike in gear and took off. The pick-up right behind him and Rick a little ways back trying to get use to the motorcycle.
Pat walked back to the group with a still fussing Harley. She tried to act casual but she had never been a part of this before. She wouldn't have been a part now if Mick hadn't threatened her daughter. All the eyes of the new comers hit her when she reached the fire.
"Where is Glenn?" Maggie asked seeing Harley in Pat's arms.
"He is still in the bathroom, needed a moment." She said sitting down away from everyone.
"Give me Harley." Lori said holding her hands out for the baby. Pat glanced at Mick then shook her head in the negative.
"He told me to hold him." She said not moving to hand the baby over.
"I have helped take care of him his whole life, Glenn will understand." Lori said making a 'give-him-here' motion with her hands. Pat shook her head again, she was told to not let any of the new group touch the baby then their leverage would be gone.
"Give Lori the baby." Shane said voice full of authority. She still didn't move. Shane's hand fell onto his pistol but the cocking of a shot gun had him freezing. He looked up to see the guy, Mick aiming at him. "What the fuck are you trying to pull?" Shane growled.
"Nothing, just relax bro." Mick said not lowering his gun in the least. Lori pulled Carl to her as Maggie and Beth clung to their father. Shane glared as he pulled his gun to aim back at Mick, he wasn't taking this bullshit.
"How can I relax with a gun in my face, pal." Shane grounded out. He jumped slightly when Al burst out laughing.
"I would lower that gun if I were you." Al said still laughing.
"Why is that?" Shane asked glaring over at the near hysterical man.
"That's why." A voice from behind him said. Shane looked over his shoulder to see the big bear guy, Harry or Harvey, toss a barely conscious Glenn to the ground. Shane let his weapon fall when a gun was leveled at Glenn's head.
"You bastards. I should have known this was a trap. Dixon was involved after all." Shane said putting his gun away. Al laughed even harder at the irony of the situation that was lost to Shane. Glenn shook his head trying to clear it. His head was pounding; the base of his skull where the butt of a gun made impact throbbed.
"Let's have some fun shall we." Al said standing to his feet. Alice grabbed Kayla then rushed off to one of the tents with the girl, so she wouldn't have to see. Adam stomped away, still without a word, with Steve rushing after him. Glenn managed to get into a sitting position but froze when the muzzle of the gun grazed his hair. "I think an audience with be a nice addition? What do you guys think?"
"Very nice." Harvey said with a smirk while Mick nodded.
"Now, Mick you keep a gun on that guy, he looks frisky." Al said moving to stand in front of Glenn, "I'm gonna need ya to behave and be totally honest with me, got it?" Glenn wanted to tell him to go fuck himself but a glance at Harley in an unknown person's arms had him nodding instead. He felt so stupid, how could he have handed his son to a complete stranger like that?
"Good boy. Now, is that really your son? Like gave birth to him?" Glenn nodded, "So, you can get pregnant?" Glenn nodded again. "Hmm, strip." Glenn looked up at him with wide eyes. "You heard me."
Glenn's hands were shaking as he grabbed the hem of his shirt. He was fighting with himself. He didn't want to do this. He had apparently taken too long because Harvey reached down and yanked it off him. Glenn looked up at Al and wanted to vomit when he gestured toward his pants. Glenn still stalled but managed to get his pants off by himself, pulling his feet out of his shoes and kicking them aside.
"Very nice." Al said looking him up and down in just his underwear, Glenn really wanted to vomit. "One more question. Can you get pregnant now? Is it like with chicks, sometimes they just can't get pregnant?" Al asked. Glenn looked over at his friends, he could see on Maggie's face she wanted him to lie. That maybe if he could get pregnant they would stop this. Al seemed to see his wheels turning. He pulled his pistol out of his pants, "Pat." She held Harley out away from her body. Glenn's eyes shot to his son who started crying. He leveled the gun at the upset infant.
"Don't!" Glenn cried desperately.
"Answer me." Al said cocking the gun, "Honestly."
"No, I can't. Not right now. Please put your gun down!" Glenn begged he felt some relief when the gun was put away.
"Good boy, honesty is the best policy after all." Al said with a laugh. Glenn hated this man, how dare he use a baby as a bargaining chip. Glenn took a step back instinctively when Al stepped toward him but a gun between his shoulder blades made him pause. He flinched when unfamiliar hands ran over his stomach. No one but Daryl was allowed to touch him. He was yanked forward against the tall man. "You sure are pretty." Al said leaning down. Glenn had the presence of mind to turn his head so that sloppy lips landed on his neck not his face. Clammy hands ran down his sides making him shudder in distaste.
"Stop it!" Maggie yelled rushing to her feet, "You have no right to do this. You're sick. Using a man's son against him, you're a monster!" Al turned to say something to her when he heard something. It couldn't be. The sound of tires skidding on gravel had all eyes on the entrance to the camp.
"No!" Al yelled shoving Glenn away from him as Merle jumped off the still running bike while the pick-up drove up behind it.
"You son of a bitch!" Merle yelled garbing Al by the shirt collar.
"I was just playin 'round." Al said frantically before a large fist crashed into his face. Harvey had dropped his gun as soon a Merle arrived; he wasn't going to face Merle he knew he stood no chance. Mick stared at the scene having forgotten about the man he was supposed to be keeping at gun point. Shane grabbed the barrel yanking the gun out of lacked hands.
Maggie rushed over to Pat yanking the waling infant from her hands. Kevin was at her side but despite the fact that he was there Maggie clocked her across the jaw. Pat's head snapped to the side and she cried out in pain. Kevin frantically tried to soothe her as Maggie stalked off with baby. "Bitch." Maggie hissed through her teeth.
Glenn was fumbling to get his clothes on. He looked up as Rick arrived in Merle's large bike. His eyes drifted to the pick-up and he felt his legs go weak. Leaning against the hood for support as he walked was the only man Glenn wanted to see at that moment. Even with everyone's frantic voices, the sound of a heavy beating and his sons crying Glenn couldn't register all that. His shirt was only half on but his feet took over.
"Daryl." Glenn said with a quiet sob, he stopped when he reached him. He looked awful and judging but how he was standing he felt it. Daryl gave him a small smile before pulling him against his chest, "Daryl you're hurt." Glenn said trying to gently pull away.
"Don't care. After all this shit, we both need this." Daryl said wrapping his arms around Glenn holding him close. Glenn choked on a sob as he tentatively wrapped his arms around Daryl, arms low on his waist to avoid his injuries. He didn't squeeze he just clung to him gently. His tears smearing the dirt on the broad chest his face was pressed against. Glenn pulled back and smiled up at Daryl. Calloused hands cupped his face as chapped lips pressed against his forehead.
"Let's get the fuck out of here." Andrea said loudly making chuckles ripple through the crowd. Merle was telling Lori where the first aid supplies were, she got them for Herschel.
"Come on Daryl. Let's get you in the RV so I can patch you up." Herschel said coming to his side. Daryl nodded releasing Glenn and letting the old man help him to the RV. Glenn took Harley from Maggie and nearly squeezed him to death. He kissed all over his tiny face until he was satisfied that his baby was alright. Glenn managed to get the rest of his clothes and shoes on one handed. He saw Merle standing over a now knocked out and beaten Al.
"Thank you, for everything." Glenn said coming to stand at Merle's side. Merle just shrugged in response. "Come with us." Glenn whispered.
"Why would I do that?" Merle asked with a smirk, Glenn could see he was just messing around.
"We need you, man. With Daryl down for the count who will go hunting for us?" Glenn joked.
"Very true. Guess that's better than this lot." Merle said moving over to get his things. Glenn smiled watching him quickly pack up, not sparing a word for his camp mates.
"You're just going to leave?" Kevin asked from his mother's side, she was now blooming one hell of a bruise on her chin. Merle shot a glare over at the kid.
"Yeah, I am. Aint worth my time bein here." Merle said breaking down his tent and getting his things together. He ignored anything further from his ex-group members.
Glenn didn't really know Merle before, hell no one had, but he was so different now. This was the Merle that Daryl was always talking about. Merle could be a descent enough person, when he wanted to be. He was also a pretty good brother. Merle had everything packed onto his old bike in no time.
"What about the other motorcycle?" Glenn asked.
"If he wasn't hurt he could drive but seeing as the situation is, I guess we leave it." Merle said looking over at the hog; it was a damn fine bike. Newer, with a nice paint job, even though it was red, not Merle favorite color but Daryl's. It looked like a bike Daryl would own, maybe that's why Merle chose to take it in the first place.
"I can drive it. I use to ride my friends motorcycle all the time." T-Dog said walking up, "It's a shame to just leave it." Merle observed him for a moment before nodding. Maybe even Merle could change in some ways.
"Let's go guys." Rick called out, "Saddle up." Merle and T-Dog started the bikes. Glenn hurried into the RV with Harley. With the two bikes in the lead they headed out.
Glenn made his way to the back of the RV. Dale and Shane were in the front again fussing over the map. The back sliding door, more paper really, was shut. He knocked and Herschel opened it. He nodded moving past Glenn out into the RV. Glenn entered the room, closing the flimsy door. Daryl was set up on a mountain of pillows on the bed to the right; his crossbow leaned against the bed.
"How do you feel?" Glenn asked sitting on the edge of the bed with Harley in his lap. Daryl held his arms out which were filled with his son. He held the squirming baby to his chest, pressing a kiss to his soft hair. He let out a deep sigh before looking up into Glenn's eyes.
"Much better," He said with a smile as Harley started fussing.
"He's hungry; he has been for over an hour now." Glenn said taking him back. He pulled his shirt off tossing it to floor; it was only Daryl here, no need for modesty. Harley was straight to business once he was situated against Glenn's chest. Daryl watched his son eat for a moment for turning his eyes to Glenn.
"How does your back feel?" Glenn asked as his leg was rubbed by Daryl.
"It's aint that bad. Herschel gave me some painkillers, just 800mg ibuprofen but its helpin'. Didn't need stitches again, I hate those damn things." Glenn smiled at him, almost died but still making unserious comments. There was a light knock on the door.
"It's me guys, can I come in." Shane asked through the thin barrier.
"Yeah." Glenn said shifted Harley to the other side, Shane had seen him nurse before, he didn't seem to mind. Shane came in closing the curtain like door behind him for privacy.
"We are just going to head north. Let Daryl heal up some before we have any real destination in mind. Gotta get you feeling better man." Shane said as he turned to leave.
"Shane, who found my crossbow?" Daryl called after him.
"I did, with Rick and T-Dogs help." Shane answered half in the room, half out.
"Thanks. Means a lot." Daryl said reaching his hand out to Shane who clasped it for a second.
"No problem brother." Shane said before walking out. Glenn burped Harley then set him in his basinet; he couldn't help smiling as he passed right out.
"Now he's got the right idea." Daryl said watching him sleep a moment.
"Get some rest, Daryl." Glenn said brushing some stray hair off his brow. Daryl caught his hand and brought it to his lips to press a kiss to his knuckles. Daryl continued to hold his hand even after he fell asleep, "I love you." Glenn knew he was lucky to still have Daryl and he knew he owed having them all back together to Merle.
They set up camp at an abandoned rest stop. They stayed there for over a week, waiting for Daryl to heal. He was stuck on bed for three days, only allowed to get up to use the bathroom. He almost went mad not being able to do anything. By the fourth and fifth day he was up and about again. He still couldn't go hunting but it was good to be out of the RV.
Merle had really picked up the slack with Daryl incapacitated. He did watch and hunted with little protest. He still had a mouth like a sailor, not the friendliest and a short temper but he was much better than before. Daryl told them he always acted worse when high, so the lack of drugs had to be what caused him to be so mellow.
After a week had passed Daryl pretty much was back to one hundred percent. His back was a mess of nearly healed scabs, which was guaranteed to leave some scars. Daryl had been told to take it easy but that didn't stop him for going out hunting with his brother. He came back with a string of squirrels and a few rabbits. He was back in business. Everyone sat down for dinner that night, glad to have Daryl back at the hunting. Merle was a good hunter but Daryl was better.
"It's good to have you back to normal, man." Shane said slapping Daryl on the arm, cautious of his back. Daryl smirked at his comment with a nod in thanks.
"Not that we don't appreciate you hunting Merle, but he's got you beat big time." Rick said with a smile.
"He is pretty damn good at it." Merle said with a shrug and grin.
"Better than you could ever be." Daryl said joking.
"You win this one, Daryl, but let's see how you handle that new bike. Then we can talk." Merle said shoving Daryl shoulder getting shoved in return.
"Holy crap," Glenn said getting everyone's attention, "That was the first time you have used Daryl's name in a week." Everyone thought about before nodding.
"Why call him Daryl when Dumbass is more fittin'?" Merle said with a smirk. Glenn laughed as Daryl flipped him off.
Daryl and Glenn didn't have watch duty that night. They went into RV to get ready for bed. Glenn quickly changed Harley; he was practically falling asleep as he was put in night pj's. Once in his basinet he was out. Glenn smiled at the sight as he removed his clothes; it was too hot to sleep in anything but boxers. He watched Daryl pull off his shirt, his back no longer wrapped in bandages so he would see the pretty much healed wounds. Daryl tossed his jeans to the floor as he plopped down on his bed before looking up at Glenn. Glenn blushed realizing he had been staring.
"Co'mere." Daryl said patting the bed next to him. Glenn sat down beside him. Daryl brushed some stray hair out of Glenn's face and then ran his hand down the cup his cheek. Glenn nuzzled into his hand with a smile. Daryl leaned over to press his lips to Glenn's. Glenn smiled has he returned the kiss, bringing his arms up to wrap around the older man's neck. The kisses became deeper, more passionate and hurried. Glenn slid further onto the bed pulling Daryl down with him. When Glenn's head hit the pillow they broke the kiss.
"He's out," Daryl said leaning up to look into the basinet checking to make sure they hadn't disturbed Harley. Glenn pulled him back down into a fierce kiss.
"We have to hurry and be quiet." Glenn said with a smile, they hadn't done anything in over a week and he was aching for the redneck. Daryl grinned as he ran his hands down Glenn's torso, stopping to caress hardening nipples as he went. They didn't have a lot of time for foreplay so Daryl quick removed their boxers tossing them to the floor. He settled between Glenn's invitingly open legs, his lips finding the smooth skin of Glenn's throat.
Rough hands ran over Glenn's thighs as stubble burned his neck. Glenn stifled a moan when a large palm grazed his manhood. He bit his lip to keep silent as calloused fingers wrapped around him. It felt so good he was seeing stars. Glenn ran his hands down Daryl's chest and carefully across his back. He wanted to feel more of him. Glenn pressed both hands against Daryl's chest and gave a shove, if Daryl didn't want to move the shove wouldn't have dislodge him but he obeyed by sitting back.
"Wha-" Daryl started to question.
"Shhh." Glenn said leaning down to grab his backpack off the floor where he kept it. He opened it and began fumbling around inside it. After a moment he smiled as he got what he was looking for. He tossed it to Daryl as he quietly replaced the bag on the floor, sparing a glance at a still fast asleep Harley.
Glenn leaned back to find a smirking Dixon trying to open the cap on the lube as quietly as possible. Glenn grinned at the sight as he settled back down on the bed. Daryl finally got it open then quickly squeezed a generous amount into his hand. He set it aside on the bed, using the blankets to muffle the cap as it closed. Daryl leaned down to give Glenn a smoldering kiss as his slick hand slid between the younger man's legs.
Glenn moaned softly as the first finger entered him. It wasn't long before the second finger joined. He had to bit his lips to keep from making any noise. He was relaxing fairly quietly to the intrusion considering the situation. Soon he had all three fingers, Daryl stretching him in a way that was painfully pleasant. Daryl removed his fingers when Glenn wasn't showing any signs of discomfort. He used the remaining lube on his hand to slick himself up.
Glenn focused on breathing as Daryl moved into position. He willed himself to stay relaxed as Daryl easier himself in. He couldn't stop the pained gasp when the head snapped inside. Daryl stopped to let him adjust; even on a time crunch Daryl wasn't willing to hurt him. Glenn nodded after and Daryl continued. He would stop every few minutes when Glenn would stifle a groan or his body would tense up.
"Daryl, you have to go faster," Glenn whisper through thick pants.
"It'll hurt." Daryl whispered back.
"It's okay, we don't have time right now, I would rather it hurt for a moment then he wake up and us not be able to do this at all." Glenn whispered both their eyes shooting over to the basinet.
"You asked me to, 'member that." Daryl said bringing his hand up to cover Glenn's mouth. Glenn breathed deeply as Daryl pulled back a bit; he was only about half way inside. Daryl kissed his neck as he slammed his hips forward, fully entering the smaller man. Glenn's eyes shot wide as he bit Daryl's palm to keep the scream in. It did hurt a lot more than he thought it would. Glenn fought to control himself, he just needed a minute then it would be better. He even thought for a moment how much easier this would be if Daryl was smaller but that was a stupid thought so he pushed it away.
After a few moments the pain became less sharp and more of a dull throb. He slowly nodded to let Daryl know he was ready. Daryl pulled his hip back gently, slightly adjusting the angle of his hips before thrust back inside. Color exploded before Glenn's eyes, his back arched on its own as pleasure ripped through him. That was the fastest Daryl ever found the spot. He nodded frantically as Daryl pulled back again. The thrusts picked up in speed and intensity. Glenn was biting the rough palm over his mouth as the pleasure increased. His nails found Daryl's shoulder breaking the skin.
" 'm close." Daryl whispered into his ear, stubble prickling his neck. Glenn's response of 'me too' was muffled. Daryl increased his speed again making Glenn moan against his palm. Glenn grabbed Daryl's waist pulling him down so their stomachs rubbed together with his member trapped between them. That was all he needed. His back arched and toes curled as his orgasm hit, he was thankful Daryl hadn't removed his hand because he would have definitely woken up their son, if not the whole camp. As Glenn's body clamped down around him Daryl fell over the edge to, using the curve of Glenn's neck to muffle his moan of completion.
Daryl finally removed his hand from over Glenn's mouth. The skin of his palm was broken but he didn't mind. Glenn smiled as he reached up to run his fingers through Daryl's slightly damp hair. Daryl smiled down at him as he gave Glenn a gentle kiss. Daryl carefully pulled out catching the wince it caused. He ran his hands up and down Glenn's thighs and sides in a soothing manner. They groaned as a wail came from the basinet.
"Good timin' bud." Daryl said sitting up, he picked up the fussing baby.
"He isn't hungry; does he need to be changed?" Glenn asked sitting up ignoring the protest from his lower half.
"Nope." Daryl said after checking.
"Then you must just want attention." Glenn said leaning against Daryl's shoulder to look down at the whiney baby. Daryl lifted him up to blow on his belly, the cries turned to giggles. Glenn laughed as Harley giggled and squealed. After a while Harley started getting tired so after checking his diaper Daryl put him back in the basinet. They watched him sleep for a little bit.
"I think we are figuring out this parenting thing." Glenn said lying down on Daryl's bed.
"Yeah, I think so." Daryl grinned squeezing into the bed with Glenn. Usually they sleep in separate beds but since Glenn didn't get out of the bed, they could squish together. They settled together with Glenn nestled back against Daryl. Glenn listened to Harley's light breathing then Daryl's quiet snoring, they were the men of his life and he wouldn't change that for anything.
They didn't know what this screwed life had to throw at them next but they had proven so far they could handle it. That's what families did, they stand together, and that's what they were, a family.
~The End~
Holy long ass chapter Batman! I really hope ya'll enjoyed.
This is the last chapter of the story but there will be an epilogue!
So, I had a rough time capturing Merle's voice. Just remember this is just how I see Merle, so don't get upset if you think he would be different.
Please review guys! I mean, look at this huge chapter I just sacrificed to ya'll. Just take a moment to tell me what you think :D
So, one more chapter to go after this, it will be up sooner I promise...maybe.
~Huggies&Kissies~
