Hello Bethyl lovers! I have come out from hiding! Since I have been on a long hiatus I decided to give y'all an extra long, fluffy, and in depth chapter that is all Bethyl! On a side note, Daryl is very much from the south, so sometimes he cuts off his words and he uses a lot of slang. I like writing him realistically so that he feels like Daryl. It wouldn't be right for Daryl to be so well spoken ;-) With that said, please enjoy and remember I freaking love reviews!

The bright morning sun washed the room in an orange glow and Beth's eyes reacted to the intrusive light. She rolled from her stomach onto her side and felt her head swim before beginning to pound in a slight headache in her temples. Daryl was right, Beth thought. She huffed a breath out and ran a hand over her dry face. She knew she hadn't been drunk, but compared to this morning she felt like she'd been on cloud 9 and had now fallen to Earth. She definitely felt like she'd fallen and every bone in her body felt achy. She rolled once more toward the far window and her eyes opened.

Daryl was laid out on the small couch and he looked positively strange. One leg was draped off the cushions with a foot flat on the floor and the other leg was draped across the back of the sofa. He had one hand behind his head that had made his shirt rise to show about 4 inches of his delectable abdomen between his jeans and Harley Davidson T-shirt. Despite the slight throb in her temples, Beth smiled at the sight of him. He looked so boyish, yet so rugged, and male at the same time. She'd never understand how he managed that. She blinked in surprise when he began to shift and he turned his face her way and looked right at her.

"How do you do that?" she smiled and covered her face with her hands.

"6th sense?" Daryl laughed.

"Or paranoia," Beth giggled as he rolled his eyes. "I bet that's it!" she winced as she felt the pain in her whole forehead now.

"What's wrong, Beth?" Daryl smirked at her while she winced.

"My head hurts," she frowned and looked at him with guilt. "Means you were right."

"Yeah," Daryl sighed through a grunt as he stood. "At least it's not an actual hangover. You want some orange juice?"

"Sounds awesome." Beth smiled.

"Better yet, there's a Waffle House up the road. You wanna go?" He asked as he was grabbing a hat from his bag.

" I must look like death, Daryl! Am I even half decent looking to be seen with?" she asked nervously.

Daryl turned and eyed her with intent.

"What?" Beth's brows furrowed while she covered her face again, but peaked out and Daryl dropped the hat he'd been holding to the small coffee table. He walked to the bed and stopped.

"I've never seen ya more beautiful. Beth, it'd take a hell of a lot for you to look bad." he shrugged and met her eyes.

Beth felt her heart melt over his words and she didn't feel so glum anymore about how she must look. She lowered her hands and then patted the spot beside her, before looking up expectantly at Daryl. He simply pulled the covers back and shuffled in beside her small body. She smiled at the fact it didn't take much convincing to get him to lie beside her. She reveled in the warmth of his chest on her shoulder blades and pulled his arm over her stomach tighter. She felt butterflies in her stomach and they floated throughout her torso. She felt warm, muted, and so content as they cuddled on the bed.

"I really never thought I'd find you 'gain, Beth." he whispered to her as she rolled to face him.

"Life happened, but it must'a been fate, ya know?" Beth let the backs of her fingers drift over his chin and her fingers run over his goatee.

"You believe in that stuff?" Daryl looked at her with a curiousness to his features.

"Of course," Beth smiled. "I couldn't find you online, Facebook, or anything else throughout the years. I sorta gave up." she frowned as her eyes glanced over his face.

"Good thing faith stepped in, right?" Daryl studied her features.

"God, yes!" Beth rolled to face his body completely as she placed a hand on his chest and let it drift up to his neck. She kissed right under his jaw and she loved the groan that escaped him.

"Good to know." he held her tightly to him.

"Wanna sleep some more?" she giggled.

"Hell, yes!" Daryl chuckled. I didn't get much sleep on that damn torture sofa!"

"Next time stay by me!" she reminded him as her eyes began to drift again.

"Yes, ma'am." she felt Daryl's cheek lift in a smile.

After they'd slept another few hours they finally emerged from the bed and brushed their teeth with complimentary toothbrushes and surprisingly good toothpaste. She tried to manage her hair into a style, but failed miserably and finally just brushed it out. On a whim, she pulled the huge mass of hair into a ponytail and was decently satisfied. She looked at her reflection and an idea popped into her mind. She grabbed some hair from her pony and sectioned 3 pieces that she braided to the end. She used a tiny elastic band in her backpack to secure it. She smiled and was finally satisfied with herself. She walked out of the bathroom and Daryl was sitting at the table in front of the window. His face was passive and his thumbnail was being abused by his teeth.

"Are you gonna talk about it, or am I going to hafta bribe you?" Beth walked over to stand by his side.

"You know talkin' about feelings and things ain't my thing, Beth."

"So, I guess it'll have to be a bribe, then," Beth smiled and draped herself onto his lap. "Consider yourself bribed." she smiled. "I'm not gettin' up until you spill what you've got bottled up, Dixon."

"I'm just thinking about when we were young. I felt more for you than I even understood," his eyebrows rose. "Til now."

Beth let her hands run up is arms and let them frame his face when she leaned into him and they met in a deep kiss. Both of his arms crept around her tightly. Beth felt each tick of the muscles moving in his face as her palms rested on his skin. The kiss was tame and sweet, but at the same time it bloomed with desire. Beth sighed and when she tried to move Daryl held her still on his lap. His smirk was anything but innocent before his lips kissed her softly once more.

"I still get butterflies from your kisses." Beth ran her thumb over his bottom lip. "I love it."

"You're not the only one.." Daryl shook his head and caught her lips again.

"I think I ate too much!" Beth laughed as she finished her diet coke.

"I've always said that after Waffle House. You know the food was good! I'm surprised you wanted to eat here when there was a Panera Bread down the other way."

"I'm not a Panera Bread kinda girl, Daryl. You know that!" Beth rolled her eyes and they both laughed together.

"I do, but I had to see your face when I said it!"

"Yeah, because an egg white omelette with cardboard bread is way better than bacon, eggs, and waffles? Never!" Beth climbed out of the booth.

"You wanna head back home? We can take the scenic route if we leave now."

"Sure," Beth nodded. "I am pretty confident I can sit up straight on the bike today."

"I'm never takin' you around alcohol again!" Daryl laid the tip and tab money on the table.

"Yeah, you've said that before!" Beth laughed. "I might do it again!"

"Just remember I can catch and hogtie a calf in 20 seconds! Keepin' you from a bar is tooth fairy work!"

Beth only laughed harder.

The drive was easy and after a stop here and there they finally made it near the farm. The sun was just about to set and the entire farm was under a warm, rosy glow. The bike rolled to a stop and Beth was glad the rest of the family hadn't made it back. It was still hot out and she wasn't ready to end the night. Being back was wonderful and all she wanted to do was run around like she was a kid again. She closed her eyes and shook her head. She needed to get back in the game of getting ready for school and deciding so many things.

"Hey, Beth," Daryl asked as they removed their helmets. "Wanna take a walk? I don't wanna turn in just yet."

"Umm," Beth couldn't stop the blush that crept up from her chest and she smiled. "Sure," she sat her helmet down. "I was hoping you'd ask!" Beth took Daryl's hand and as their fingers intertwined she looked down and a smile crept onto her face.

They walked slowly and Daryl led the way. She didn't know where he was headed, but the lake surrounded by trees was only past the barn. She tried to think of anything except for their kisses, but her mind was muddled with his warm mouth and toe curling touch. They were walking towards the deeply hidden lake and all the fireflies in Georgia seemed to be swirling around them as they followed the slightly worn path to the tiny dock that sat on the water.

"Right here." Daryl stopped and turned to her.

"What?" Beth shrugged, unable to see what here meant.

"Just over here," Daryl brought her slightly off the path and to a large oak tree.

What she saw made her heart drop and soar at the same time. There, in the tree's trunk, were their names carved neatly into the bark. You could tell it was done years ago and Beth squeezed Daryl's hand as she reached out to touch it. Daryl & Beth. There was a perfectly carved heart around their names. She looked at Daryl as she studied the intricate carving and Daryl raised his free hand to bite his thumbnail.

"I did it right when ya left. I didn't know if you'd ever be back, or if we'd ever be here again. I had to leave somethin' of us here. Like a tattoo."

"It's amazing, Daryl. I love it. It makes me crazy happy on one hand, but then sad because of all the time we lost."

"Don't look at it as time lost, Beth. Shit happens and I," Daryl stopped a moment as he seemed to look for words. "I'm just happy y'all came back."

"I always thought when I left you'd go for another girl. Daddy didn't believe in the Internet until a year ago or so and I could never find you online, but Facebook wasn't even a thing then. I had imagined maybe when I left you'd have found someone."

"There's been a few, but none of 'em were serious. I think they kinda knew it, too. My heart was never really there."

"Where is it now?" Beth caught Daryl's gaze and he was nervous, she could tell by his eyes.

"Standin' in front of me. " Daryl pulled her and into his arms gently as kissed her. The kiss lasted a moment before he pulled her into a full hug.

"I say let's burn the past and focus on the right now," Beth let her hands thread into his hair. "Nothing else matters."

"Nothin' at all." he whispered into her ear through her hair and she heard him inhale while she held him tightly.

Their walk back to the house was quiet and muted, but sweet. The sun was only barely above the tree line and the walk back was harder due to the darkness. Their hands had found one another's and weren't close to letting go. The closer to the house they got, the more Beth wanted to rewind time and go back to that hotel room, but there was nothing she could do about it right now. She couldn't get her mind off it, but knew he'd been right.

"You want me to call you later? I want ya to see my shop sometime this week," Daryl shoved his hands in his pockets.

"Sure. When is a good day?"

"Tomorrow evenin'?"

"Alright, then," Beth smiled and they both leaned in for a kiss.

Her hands crept up and wove into his hair as his hands crept behind her lower back. Time stood still and all she could feel was Daryl, his body, and that warm cologne caressed her senses along with his hands across her shoulder blades. Beth stood on her toes and deepened the kiss as Daryl groaned under his breath. Beth reacted and her arms lowered as the fingers of her right hand dug into his right shoulder. She felt a growl in his chest and her breath caught in hers.

Maybe she could convince him now was the time. Maybe she could make him crazy with need and have him now. Daryl's hands caught her face and kissed her one last time to still her. She stopped kissing him and her shoulders dropped. She whimpered slightly and let her hands pull from his back to rest on his chest over his shirt. She wasn't disappointed, but she also knew she had worked herself up.

"What's wrong with tonight, Daryl?"

"Nothing's wrong with it, but it still ain't right."

Beth rested her forehead on his. "How'dya know that, hmm?" she let her lips graze his and they lightly touched as she studied his features.

"I know because there is no way in Hell I'd touch you in your daddy's house and him havin' the chance of showin' up with that shotgun I mentioned before!" Daryl chuckled onto her lips and she took the opportunity to kiss him firmly.

"Beth," Daryl pulled back and held her face. "I'm gonna do right by you. Makin' love to ya in a house where your dad is gonna come home too soon isn't my idea for you 'n me, alright? I will give you anything you want, but this right now."

"Alright, but one day your guard is gonna fall and I'll be there!" Beth grabbed her bag which they'd collected off the bike.

"I'm countin' on it, but," Daryl smiled as she unlocked the front door. "Just not tonight!" he laughed at her scoff of annoyance.

"Night," Daryl held his hand up.

"You, too." Beth smiled and wrapped her arms around her midsection.

Daryl walked off and her body almost cried in frustration, but she sucked it up and watched as he threw his leg over his bike and kicked it to life. The engine roared loudly. She bit her lip and loved the way he looked as he rode away off into the dusky night. Her heart fluttered a few beats and she tried to keep away the blush, but that was impossible as she headed upstairs for a shower.

After taking a long and hot shower Beth pulled on her favorite linen pajamas before she fell onto her back on the bed. All of her thoughts led to Daryl, the pool, and the makeout session on the bed after that. She threw an arm over her eyes and sighed. Her family wouldn't be back until tomorrow morning and she wound up squirming in her sheets. Everything around her seemed to buzz. She sat up and made her way to the kitchen. She threw open the fridge and poured a glass of milk to drink with golden Oreos. She looked around and decided to watch some TV. She trudged over to the set and turned it on.

The Vampire Diaries. Beth rolled her eyes, but as she watched Damon kiss Elena she melted to the back of the couch and groaned lightly. She really wanted to growl in frustration. She wanted Daryl, God yes, she wanted him so badly. She should wait though, right? She shouldn't just fall into bed with him after only reuniting a few weeks ago after being apart nearly 7 years. She should listen to him. Wasn't spontaneity part of being young, though? Was she being her over thinking, neurotic, worrisome self again? Even Annette told her to live! Annette was the most tame and quiet woman she'd ever known. The thought of pristine Annette telling her to be wild made her feel so plain Jane.

Beth turned off the TV before begrudgingly making her way back to her bed and beneath the now cool sheets. She would think about it tomorrow and see how everything went. She didn't need to decide this now and she didn't need the bone deep exhaustion that came along with not sleeping, either. Her eyes closed. Immediately, Daryl appeared and his hands were massaging her thighs as his mouth explored her neck. She felt the weight of his body on hers, the smell of that enticing cologne, and felt every kiss warm her chest. She fell asleep as she imagined how far his kisses led.

Beth awoke Monday morning and threw on some jeans and a black tank top. She ran a brush through her hair and decided to let it be as she crossed her floor length mirror to get her Chuck Taylor's sitting beside it. She had a blush on her cheeks and she must have gained a couple of pounds, which she was happy to because her jeans weren't so loose. She was just about to heat up a hot pocket when she got an idea and texted Maggie about where Daryl's shop was. Maybe she would show up and see him first. She was grabbing her keys when that familiar roar erupted outside the house. A bright smile assaulted lips and she made her way to the porch door to see Daryl propping his bike on it's stand.

"I had to see ya so I came earlier," he smiled and began to make his way up the stairs and straight to her and wrapped her in his arms.

"I was just about to sneak up on you! I just did text Maggie!"

"Yeah?" Daryl asked as he leaned back, but still kept her laced inside his arms.

"You smell so nice," Beth nodded.

"I do?" Dayrl smiled. "You were about to come spy on me, so come with me?" Daryl nodded to his bike.

"Where?" she smiled and chuckled. "I wasn't planning on a bike ride today." Beth played with the button on Daryl's jean jacket.

"Please?"

"Alright, since I was already about to stalk you... I guess I can leave with you, but let me grab a jacket. Riding on that bike gets cold."

Beth walked in and Daryl followed slowly behind as she headed to her room. She noticed Daryl hadn't walked in behind her. She stuck her head out and saw he was intently studying the family pictures that hung on the wall. She smiled at the fact he wanted to see them and she quietly turned back into her room and grabbed her Georgia Bulldogs hoodie. She walked by her vanity and grabbed her lip balm and spritzed a spray of perfume onto her collar bone. She pulled on the big hoodie and headed out.

"Alright, I am ready..." Beth was saying just as she rounded her door frame and entered the living room when the front door opened.

"Afternoon, Bethy, Daryl," Herschel let the screen close and kept the door opened. "Y'all are headed out?"

"Hey, daddy," Beth smiled and went up to kiss his cheek and hug him tightly.

"How are ya doing, sir?" Daryl asked and Herschel smirked.

"I'm well, son. My knees are sore from all the walking Maggie wanted to do, but I am still up and at it. I heard you guys had a fun weekend."

"Yes, we did," Beth smiled at her dad and Daryl. "We went to a barbeque. I got back in plenty time to catch a full night's sleep, too." Beth shouldered her small bag.

"That's good. Annette is outside, Maggie and Glenn had to get to a store to find Maggie some pillow to help with sleeping." Herschel explained slightly confused.

"Well, Daryl was just about to take me somewhere and we might eat dinner, too."

"Alright, I am just going to make myself and Annette a sandwich. After that I am probably laying down for a while. Maybe watch some Jeopardy."

"Sounds like a good recipe to rest those knees!" Beth smiled and kissed Herschel's cheek once more.

"Daryl?" her dad eyed him intently. "Will I see you tomorrow to work on the house?"

"Wouldn't dream of bein' late." Daryl said awkwardly.

"Alright, I will see you then." Herschel smiled, but his eyes held a multitude of intimidation.

"Yes, sir." Daryl nodded before Beth pulled his hand and they headed out of the door.

"I have killed and eaten snakes, shot and hunted hundreds of deer, but your dad scares me more than any Chupacabra."

"You're kidding, right? Plus, I thought Chupacabras were a myth!" Beth laughed as she stood opposite Daryl beside the bike.

"Hell no, Greene. Chupacabras are very real and I've seen one!" Daryl spoke with a serious tone.

"Ya saw one?" Beth stopped as she was pulling off her bag to place in the side bags.

"Sure did."

Beth only stared at him silently.

"Alright, I may have been drunk off my ass and drank a bottle'a tequila," Daryl looked embarrassed as he glanced at her. "I may have also eaten the worm, too." he added blushing.

"I think that explains it!" Beth laughed and began strapping on her helmet as Daryl smirked at her beneath his.

"Ya might be right," Daryl spoke under his breath. "I know what I saw!" he shrugged.

"I believe ya, hun." Beth smiled as Daryl kick started the engine and she climbed on and held tightly to his waist as he took off.

Daryl drove them down the familiar streets and Beth tried to remember as much as she could, but so much had changed and hardly anything looked the same. She saw the old post office in town and remembered playing on the rails on the handicapped ramp as her dad would walk inside to buy stamps. Across the street the pharmacy was the same, too. She remembered going in and getting a sucker when she was sick. Nostalgia felt nice as she looked around and it made her smile. She sighed and rested her head on Daryl's back.

The bike slowed and they turned down a drive. Beth lifted her head to see the white sign that read in bold, black letters: Dixon's Auto Repair. She was so proud of him for getting what he'd always wanted. He always worked on cars and always had grease under his nails growing up. She liked that aspect of him. She loved that he worked hard like a man should, just like her daddy. She smiled at the thought. Seeing Daryl covered in oil, dirt, and sweat was more than pleasing to the eye, though. The lot had several cars and trucks with huge all-terrain tires parked in it. He must be doing well. The garage was 2 large doors and a lobby attached.

"What do you think? Rick Grimes helped with the building permits, design, and all."

"It's awesome, Daryl. I mean, you get to do what you always wanted, right?"

"Hell yeah and I'm my own boss, too. I make good money and get a lot of cars. I can make my own schedule. I even have a mini apartment upstairs."

"You're awesome." Beth smiled and followed Daryl toward the garage doors.

"I dunno where Jim is, most likely takin' a bacon burger break." Daryl rolled his eyes and looked around the shop.

Beth walked around and just observed the large space with metal signs on the wall representing Pennzoil. She walked to the back of the shop and one big spot on the wall held shelves. There were car replicas, pictures, and several other collectibles. She picked up a mini silver metal mustang replica and smiled. She knew this was a 1969 Shelby Mustang GT fast back. She bit her lip and remembered Gone in 60 Seconds. Eleanor, she was Randall Raynes' unicorn. She and Daryl watched that before a multitude of times. She set the car back down and her eyes flickered to the right of the top shelf toward the middle. In a simple wooden picture frame held a picture of her and Daryl together. She picked it up and saw there was a very thick layer of dust on it. He had this here for quite some time for it to catch dust. She remembered Mika had taken the picture at school and had gotten it developed as a surprise. Daryl had his arm slung over her shoulders and they both were laughing so hard. They looked so happy.

"Daryl?" Beth called.

"Yep?" Daryl replied and Beth turned to see him looking at a clipboard studiously.

"I can't believe you have this," Beth walked over and placed the picture on the clipboard he was staring at. "You kept up with it this long?"

Daryl turned and bit his thumbnail as he pulled out a red rag and began to wipe the very thick layer of dust off the glass. "I found it a while back, about 3 years ago in some boxes at my house."

"Ya brought it here?" Beth brows rose.

"That wall is a ode to my childhood 'n all. It's like a wall of likes and memories. I also hang up things I want. 'Course you'd be up there."

Beth took a deep breath as tears pricked her eys. She'd been on his mind after all this time. The thought made her both elated and sad at the fact she'd had to leave. She shook her head and stared at his nervous glances. She stepped forward and grabbed his face as she greedily claimed his mouth with her own. She stood on her toes and poured her heart into the kiss. She let the world around them drift away and she only felt his body against hers. She raked her hands up his neck and through his hair. She loved the way his hands slowly found the curves of her waist and he held her firmly. She never wanted him to let go.

"What was that for?" Daryl looked at her and truly seemed clueless. Typical guy, Beth smiled.

"You're amazing, Daryl." Beth sighed and kissed him once more and giggled when his chest rumbled.

"Well, hell. Whatever it is I'm damn glad I did it!" he let his hands splay across her back.

"That's why I just kissed you. The fact there's a picture of you and me up on your wall, plus it's been there for like, ever it seems."

"You never really left Georgia, Beth."

"I guess not." Beth smiled and pecked his lips as she lowered herself and reached for the frame. She walked it back over to the shelf and set it up.

"I kinda have to use the restroom." Beth spoke quietly.

"Here's the key," Daryl held out his keys to her and she walked back over to him. "Behind that door is a staircase that leads up to the apartment. The door to bathroom'll be open."

"Thanks," Beth smiled and headed for the door.

She jogged slowly up the staircase and through the apartment door. It was a nice sized studio that felt more like a loft. He had a bed with a dark gray comforter and only one side turned down. He had two large windows and each were covered by real tree camouflage curtains. She saw his boots sitting by the bathroom and smiled for some reason she didn't really understand. She continued to the bathroom which had a small sink and a medium sized mirror. She was surprised to see a full sized tub and shower combo.

When she was done she giggled at the fact he had a bar of Irish spring instead of liquid soap. She finished up and went back into the bedroom. Behind the bathroom to her left was a tiny kitchen area with a sink, oven with a stove top, and a full fridge. This was a single man's dream. Curiosity got the best of her and she went to open the fridge. It was stocked. There was a glass jar of Pig's Feet, a half gallon left of a gallon of milk, cheese slices, chips rolled up in their own bag, and mayo. There was a half bottle of Tobasco, a couple beers, and ketchup. What kind of meals did he make? Where were the vegetables? Where was the fruit? How could someone survive without those? She laughed out loud.

"What'sa funny?" Daryl's voice made her jump.

"Thanks for coughing or something on your way up and lettin' me know where you were!" she held her heart.

"Why? So you can keep trolling my fridge?"

"Maybe..." Beth tried to hide her smile. "Anyways, why don't you have any fruit or veggies? Some chicken or anything?"

"I'm a single man, Beth. I don't do all that cookin'." Daryl shrugged with a smile. "I just live simple, ya know?"

"I guess so, but you still need to eat better!" Beth laughed as she looked the studio over once more.

"You're right," Daryl nodded. "You'll teach me?" he walked up and kissed her cheek. "I have better food in my house fridge."

"It's a good idea," she sighed as they headed for the stairs. "I'm glad to know you have some veggies somehwere to eat!"

"Well, I'll be got-damned!" Beth heard a voice from behind an older, rusted truck and out walked a slightly older man with a 5 o'clock shadow, white tank top, and a dark green button up shirt left open.

"What the hell, Merle?" Daryl groaned and gave Beth a look that made her want to hug him as they came off the stairs.

"Ya ain't happy to see me, little brother? I gotta say I am really happy to see ya with a lady, finally!" Merle laughed and it made her uncomfortable.

"Shut up, Merle!" Daryl warned him and his voice held a slight growl to it. "This is Beth-" Daryl was cut off by Merle.

"The farmer's daughter? This is the girl that had you dancin' around like a pansy-ass puppet for years and depressed when she took off like Cinderella? Well, no wonder little brother, look at her! How're you doin?" Merle smiled and winked at Beth as he leaned onto his old gray Ford truck.

"I'm good." Beth smiled nervously and hated the way Merle eyed her intently as his eyes ghosted her body.

"Merle, what the hell are ya even doin' here?" Daryl closed and locked the apartment door behind him. "How'd you get outta the penn so soon anyway?"

"Good behavior, Darylina! Plus, the state is so overpopulated in the penn with assholes like me they are lessonin' sentences left and right!" Merle pulled out a cigarette and put it in his mouth.

"Naw, man. No smokin' in here; bad for business."

"Aw, fuck, man!" Merle pulled it out and put it in his pocket.

"Hey! You'd better watch your mouth, sunshine!" Daryl gave Merle a bone freezing glare.

"Alright. I came by to tell you I was out and seeing that you want nothin' to do with your big bro. Well, if you need any help, let me know. I need a few extra dollars for this truck and my weekly intake of beer and other necessities."

"I'll let ya know." Daryl shrugged.

"Good," Merle smiled when he eyed Beth, smiling between her and Daryl. "If it don't work out, call me!" Merle laughed.

"Get the hell on!" Daryl growled out and rolled his eyes as he blocked Beth from his view as he climbed into his truck and as he backed out.

"Wow," Beth sighed and looked around awkwardly.

"Hey, Merle ain't a really bad guy, but he's a huge ass. Ma tried to teach him how to treat women, but his dumbass has a brain issue. He just "

"It's good to know!" Beth laughed and tried to ease some of the tension on Daryl's face.

"I need you to meet one more person!" Daryl gabbed her hand and led her toward the small lobby and sit down area behind the glass wall.

"This is Jim, Beth." Daryl nodded to a gray haired man behind the cash register.

"Well, it's nice to meet you," Jim smiled and walked to Beth to shake her hand. "I've heard about you before."

"Thank you," Beth smiled and shook his hand. "I hope it wasn't bad things!"

"No, not bad. He mentioned you rob banks, steal money from old ladies, and are covered in tattoos!"

"What? I think I might tell my dad to get his shotgun ready when he takes me home!" Beth feigned a look of shock through her amusement.

"I like this girl, Daryl.." Jim smiled as he laughed. "Keep her around!"

"I'm hopin' to!" Daryl smiled.

"She just met Merle, so good luck! I'm surprised she ain't running home as we speak!" he shook his head.

"That's what I thought." Daryl mumbled as the phone rang.

"Let me get that phone," Jim hurried to the counter. "Nice meeting you, Beth!" Dale smiled and grabbed the phone.

"Nice meeting you, Jim!" Beth waved as she and Daryl walked out of the lobby.

After they had a quick bite for dinner at Chick Fi La they headed back toward the farmhouse. The road was clear, the air was slightly cooler, and Beth couldn't keep the butterflies down in her stomach. Her hands tingled as they gripped Daryl's chest and his cologne warmed her senses. Daryl turned them the opposite way that would lead to the farm and drove for quite a minute. They ended up in front a nice, new dark brown house with wood like planks instead of vinyl. It was very country, very humble, and Beth found herself loving the rustic look of it.

"Daryl, is this your house?" Beth asked as they were unloading off the bike.

"Yep. I took an entire year of profit from the shop and paid it down a quarter. I have been doing home construction, too, it pays really good per hour and Rick Grimes does it with me. He owns a construction company and helped me get the loans. He helped me build the house, too. I do motorcycle repair on my off days every other week."

"This is beautiful," Beth sighed and looked around the woods his house sat nestled inside of with serenity. "You're doing great!" Beth smiled and felt true happiness for him.

"It took a lotta damn work. I haven't went out in months since you and I went to West Point.." Daryl pulled out his keys and they walked to the door. "I figured sacrifice a little and gain a lot."

"That's honorable."

"You think so?" he turned and faced her as they stood on the porch with their lips a breath apart.

"I know so." she glanced at his lips and then into his eyes.

Daryl put a hand on her cheek and finally let their lips touch and Beth sighed into his mouth. She let her hands graze his torso on their way up to wrap around his neck. She relished the sweet taste of him as she lost her footing when he wrapped an arm around her and her toes lifted off the ground. A giggle escaped her mouth and she felt Daryl smile against her lips. She wanted so badly to stay, but knew her dad would be so disappointed.

"I wish I could stay," Beth let a hand thread through his hair and she tugged it gently.

"You're beating me down on that, you know it, right?"

"Maybe, maybe not." Beth smirked.

"Yeah." Daryl laughed. "Ya got no idea!" Daryl rolled his eyes as he let Beth down and went to unlock the door.

"There might be some stuff sitting out and might be a lil' messy."

"Understandable if you work all the time," Beth spoke, but went quiet when they walked inside. "Wow."

"I know it ain't much, but I put my blood and sweat into building this house."

"It looks like it and it's beautiful." Beth said as she tried to take in as much she could as quickly as possible.

Beth walked over to the rock fireplace and smiled at the squirrel hat that sat on the mantle. Beside the hat was a picture of Daryl and Rick Grimes holding up a line of bass they caught standing in front of a lake. She turned around and loved the dark hunter green curtains that hung over the long, wide windows that almost covered the wall to the door. The floors were a dark brown wood and looked so antique, but it fit the new house. The ceilings were tall and vaulted. There was a pillow on the sofa and it looked slept in with a severely tattered throw lain over it.

"I sleep on the couch sometimes. It gets cold in the bedroom and I hate turning on the heat. The fireplace is my best friend."

Beth smiled and when she got to the kitchen she was shocked at the size of it. The cabinets were coordinating in a dark wood and there were warm browns, maroons, and greens. She loved the dark green towels and pot holders he had. It was strange how it was decorated, at least for a man. There were no frills, but very masculine. The appliances were new and stainless steel. She had a slight glimpse of cooking in here on Saturday mornings.

"I like the curtains, towels, and it looks really good in here," Beth looked around and then at Daryl. "Did someone help you decorate?"

"Yeah, Carol picked some stuff out. She likes doing all that stuff."

Beth's mind froze, but her body remained cool. Who was Carol? Was it a cousin, his aunt, or grandma? Who was she? She tried to go off on a list in her head and never remembered Daryl mentioning a Carol. Maybe it was a cousin, but she had no reason to doubt Daryl-and he had never given her any reasons to. She was looking at a crock-pot cookbook when two hands crept onto her hips and laced in front of her. She let out what she hoped was a silent breath.

"Carol is a lady that lives down the road and knows me, the Grimes, and Merle. She's like a mom figure to me. Her and Merle once had a thing after her husband, Ed, died. They were pretty close and even closer when her daughter, Sophia, moved away for college."

"Oh," Beth tried her best to sound nonchalant. "That's sounds like he's pretty nice to her."

"He wouldn't stop drinkin' and roaming around town with women. Carol sent him packing, but he's probably headed over there right now. Knowin' her and how much she still loves him... She'll let him in. He ain't nice, but he did love her. Shame is that he can't do right by her."

"Maybe one day he will." Beth turned her face toward him.

Daryl kissed Beth's cheek and chuckled which made her blush and break out in goose bumps over her neck before turning to lean against the counter. "Look, I don't have many friends. Rick, his wife, Carol, Glenn, Maggie, and Dale are basically it for me."

"I have less than that now," Beth sighed and turned to face the kitchen as well.

"You wanna see the rest of it?"

"Sure."

"The bed is unmade, just like the shop. Sometimes I work on a car so long it drains the life out of me. I lay down after a shower 'n pass out."

Beth followed Daryl into the bedroom which was dark due to the dark green muslin slightly see-through curtains behind the mossy oak camo curtains. The bed was huge, a king, and on it laid a huge dark blue comforter with another huge quilt. The floors were carpeted and there were Chilton mechanic books taking up an entire shelf above the desk. The desk had a stack of papers, a desktop computer, and a cup of pens. She looked to the left wall and saw at least 15 different rods and reels hanging up beside a coat peg rack that held several well worn jackets. What really drew her attention were the dream catchers hanging in front of the huge window in front of the curtains.

"I love the Dream catchers," Beth glanced at Daryl and walked over to touch the biggest one. "They're beautiful."

"Yeah, uh," Daryl was at a loss for words and it shocked her. "I have bad dreams, a lot and sometimes they're really bad. I was hoping they'd help, but they don't do shit. They look nice, but they don't do nothing."

"Maybe they'll help one day." Beth walked back to Daryl. "Hey, is that a crossbow? I remember you had one when we were younger, but I don't remember it bein' that big!" Beth admired the weapon.

"Oh, yeah. That crossbow requires real muscle and loadin' the arrow is plain hard work!" Daryl nodded.

"I hate to say it, but I have to go. I don't want daddy pulling out that shotgun you've been goin' on about!" Beth smiled.

"Yer damn right," Daryl laughed. "That man ain't no joke!"

"Ha ha, really funny! You know daddy is really a teddy bear!"

"Yer daddy is a damn good shot! C'mon!" Daryl walked out into the living room and to the door.

Beth and Daryl reached the farm and Beth could see the light on beside her daddy's reading chair. Maggie and Glenn's light was on, too. She smiled when she thought of how soon a baby would be in the house. Little diapers, socks, and tiny onesies. She hadn't even begun to plan the baby shower. The thought made her giddy and she squeezed Daryl's stomach as they grumbled up to the front yard on the bike. Beth saw the curtain move and her dad peak out. She laughed lightly and Daryl patted her hand with his.

"I'm gonna go on home and pass out. I need to get to work on the house, too. Rick is running the shop tomorrow."

"I hope you sleep well. I'm always up late if you wanna call and talk." Beth turned to Daryl as he dismounted the bike.

"I might hafta take you up on that, Greene."

"I'll see you later, Dixon!" Beth gave his cheek a peck before quickly pulling back and turning to head for the porch.

When she pulled open the screen door and closed it she smiled at her dad before a huge grin covered her face. Daryl's bike roared to life and drove down the dirt drive. She couldn't wipe the grin off and her dad made the grumpiest grunt he could. She laughed out loud and went to sit on the sofa near his chair as he sat reading his bible.

"That young man has done a lot for himself and I can't deny that. I have to give him credit for it. I was talking to Glenn and he tells me that boy barely stops working. He's got a good head on his shoulders and I'm proud of him. His dad never showed promise, or taught him hardly anything, but Daryl definitely looks promising as a man."

"I'm glad you think so, daddy." Beth looked at her fingernails and then at Herschel. "I really like him, a lot, actually." Beth nodded.

"You know I love you, right Bug?"

"I love you, too, daddy!" Beth got up and gave him a kiss on his forehead

"Just remember to keep your wits about you."

Beth tried to burst out laughing. "Right. I will definitely keep my wits about me!" she nodded and ran off to her room.

Beth fell back on her bed an sighed. Daryl was amazing and Georgia was proving to be the best thing to happen to her life again.