So I wanted to say thank you once again to everyone that liked, PM'd and commented on the last chapter. Your thoughts mean a lot to me as I take my OTP on this journey. I never knew that so many people would feel the need to take up smoking after reading it! Lol.

Anyway, back to the story. Once again, there is a bit of smut at the beginning, so if that's not your thing, you can skip down and enjoy the rest of the chapter. And now, on with the show!

Chapter 28

Anytime you need a friend, I will be here

You'll never be alone again, so don't you fear

Even if you're miles away, I'm by your side

So don't you ever be lonely, love will make it alright

Michonne ran out of the bathroom and grabbed her phone from the night stand, wiping the mouthwash from her chin with the sleeve of her robe.

"What's up Andrea?" she said quietly sitting down on the bed and looking over her shoulder. Rick was still passed out and she didn't want to wake him up.

"Nothing much. I was just wondering what time you were coming to pick up Dre," her best friend replied.

Michonne looked at the alarm clock on the night stand. "Is he up already? It's not even 8."

"Nope, he's still asleep and snoring just like his mother does. I was just wondering when I should have him ready for brunch and by him I mean me."

"I would say around 10:30 or 11. I don't know what time Rick told Carl and Shane to be ready by." Michonne kept her words vague as to not alert her friend that Rick had spent the night fucking her into next week and was currently still there. She would tell Andrea, just not so early in the morning. Her head couldn't handle it.

There was silence on the other end of the phone. "Well find out and let me know."

"I will. You're up early. Why?" Michonne questioned as she felt the bed shift and a strong arm wrap around her waist. Soft lips began placing delicate kisses along her neck and shoulders. She tilted her head to the side, allowing the culprit easier access.

"No reason. I was in the bathroom and realized we hadn't settled on a time to meet up or whether I should just bring Dre back after he gets up and dressed."

"No don't do that," Michonne said a little too quickly. She noticed and tried to recover. "Rick wants to be there with me when I pick him up. You know first time and all."

"Hmmm. Whatever you say Meesch."

"Look, I'll find out from him and let you know," she breathed out trying to suppress the moan that was building up in her throat. Rick had successfully untied her robe and was massaging her breast as he moved his soft lips down her neck. "We'll be over once he comes. Okay?"

Michonne didn't wait for a response before pushing the end call button and turning her head to capture Rick's mouth in a kiss. "I was trying to talk to her about today. Way to distract me."

"I wasn't tryin' to distract you 'Chonne. Finding out what time we need to meet up is important," Rick drawled as he pulled her arms from the robe before guiding her to lay down, kissing her silky, ebony shoulders as he did so. She had forgotten how strong his southern accent was in the mornings. "But you were wrong about one part." He stopped and looked at her, a question in her eyes. "We'll pick up Dre right after we both cum."

"You're horrible!" she laughed at his play on words before meeting his lips in a tantalizing kiss, wiping all thoughts of brunch from both of their minds as he covered her body with his own. "Mmmm," she moaned, one hand sliding across Rick's muscular back while the other ran through the curls at the base of his neck, the weight of his strong, fit body pressing her into the mattress.

Rick maneuvered himself, sliding into Michonne's already dripping pussy easily and began moving his hips in a slow rhythmic fashion, the way he knew she loved. "Michonne, Michonne Michonne (kiss). You (kiss) feel (kiss) fucking incredible (kiss)," he said softly as he moved his kisses down her neck and across her shoulders as he rested on his forearms above her. "You're still so fucking tight. I love it."

Michonne pressed her head into the pillow as her body began to sing once again due to Rick's attentions. She was a little sore but she pushed through it because she knew that the pleasure outweighed the pain. After her declaration of love to Rick, she had fallen asleep only to be awoken a few hours later by "Rick Junior" pressed against the top of her butt as he nipped at her and caressed her breast, holding her close. "I need you 'Chonne," he had whispered, before lifting her leg and entering her from behind with a sigh. Rick had proceeded to fuck her into another two mind blowing orgasms before succumbing to his own and falling back into a deep slumber. She didn't know how much more her body could handle after going without for so long, but she'd be damned if she wouldn't give it the old college try!

"Rick! Your dick feels sooo good! So big and hard," Michonne purred as he continued his masterful stroke in and out of her.

"And it's yours baby. My dick is all yours. Forever," he moaned as he lowered his head, beginning to suck and kiss her soft, generous breast, gently biting her nipple before flicking it with his tongue. "Are these my breast 'Chonne?"

"Yes," she breathed out, her heart racing. "They're yours Rick."

His strong callused hand rubbed circles down her body, sending sparks across her already sensitive skin. Reaching her plump posterior he seized a handful. He let her nipple fall from his mouth with a 'pop'. "And is this my ass 'Chonne?" he questioned, his southern drawl low and rumbling against her chest.

"Mmmm it's yours," she whimpered, her hips meeting each of his thrust with her own, her hand clutching the sheets.

He wanted to feel more of her, so he lifted her leg high around his waist, allowing himself to go deeper. A slight rotation of his hips had him hitting his target, causing Michonne to arch off the bed and cry out. "God damn it Rick! You're so fucking deep! So fucking deep!"

"You like that baby? You like the way I make love to you? How I make your pussy feel?" he asked as he speed up his movements. His warm breath hitting the sides of her face and neck in puffs as he worked her.

"Yes! I love it! Please don't stop!" Michonne began to clamp around his dick which was now hard as granite and pounding in and out of her, constantly hitting her g-spot and causing her to see stars.

Rick held her silky, smooth leg in a tight grip as he pistoned back and forth, sweat falling from him on to the woman below him. "But it's not your pussy anymore, is it? Tell me who's it is? Who's pussy am I making love to Michonne?" he grunted out as he tried to keep his own orgasm at bay as Michonne's body vibrated around him like a tuning fork, making his balls tighten to an impossible degree.

"Oh god! OH GOD! OH GAWD!" Her vision was fading out. "Motherfucker! Your dick is amazing!"

"Who's is it Michonne!"

"IT'S YOUR PUSSY RICK! IT'S YOURS FOREVER!" she bellowed, throwing her head back. Her vision whited out as she came harder than she ever had in her life and she scratched her nails down Rick's back.

"Damn right," he yelled as her vagina grasped his dick inside her, once again drowning it with her cum and causing him to release as well. She felt him swell then shoot load after load into her. Filling her once more.

"Oui! Remplis-moi!" she moan in French before guiding his lips to hers, sucking on his pink, pouty lower one. "J'adore. I love you Rick," she breathed as he lowered his sweaty head to her shoulder, letting their hearts return to their normal rates.

"I love you too Michonne," he breathed out as he nuzzled his nose into her neck where he kissed her before closing his eyes ready to go back to sleep.

"Um? Mr. Grimes? I hate to disturb you and all but I'm gonna need you to move so I can call Andrea back and you can text Shane and Carl," she chuckled. "We'll pick up Dre at 11? It's 8:30 now."

"Sure. That gives me an hour or so to sleep," he noted as he withdrew from her heated center.

"Why only an hour? We have at least an hour and a half, maybe even two since I know what I'm wearing."

"Cause 'Chonne, I plan on indulging in some more personal time with my new and favorite toy," he replied with a smirk, grinding against her when he saw the look of confusion on her face.

Michonne rolled her eyes and laughed, pushing him off of her. "Really Rick? We just got finished making love! There is no way we have time to do it again and function on such little sleep."

"We'll see Michomne. We'll see," he said with a knowing smirk as he picked up his phone, texting Shane and Carl.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Knock knock knock.

Michonne yawned loudly, covering her mouth with her hand as she and Rick waited for Andrea to open the door. If she was by alone she would have just used her key. However, since Rick was there, she didn't want to be rude to her best friend, even if their son was currently inside.

"You okay baby?" Rick asked, rubbing her back as they waited. She looked up at him with wide eyes, seeing a devilfish grin on his face. They had only been asleep for about an hour when Rick's alarm went off and he announced it was time to get up, carrying her to the shower. Once they were there, he'd proceeded to indulge in more personal time with "his new toy". Both Michonne's mind and body were tired after countless orgasms and very little sleep.

Before she could answer, the door opened and Andrea let them in. "Sup Meesch, Rick. Meesch, I need you to help me finished getting dressed. Andre, look who's here!"

"Daddy!" he exclaimed running into the room and being immediately picked up by his father. Today he was dressed in a tan Henley shirt and jeans matching his fathers look, minus the cowboy boots. On his feet were little tan Nikes. "Are you coming to eat with us? Where's Carl?"

'Wow! I feel like Loki right now. Totally forgotten for Thor," Michonne said with a laugh to Andrea.

"Carl's down stairs with Uncle Shane and if course I'm going to eat with you but aren't you going to say hello to your mommy?" Rick asked his little boy. Andre immediately signaled that he wanted to be held by his mother, who came over and took him from Rick's arms. He kissed her on the cheek before wrapping his arms around her neck.

"I'm sorry mommy. I love you. I was just excited to see my daddy," he said looking at her with his big hazel-bleu eyes.

"It's okay Peanut. But you know how much I love your hugs and kisses first thing in the morning. It just hurt mommy a little."

"I love your hugs and kisses more," Andre said and they gave each other Eskimo kisses. "Can I have bunny pancakes today? I haven't had them in ages and I'm starving," he said dramatically causing all the adults to laugh.

"Of course you can. Maybe Carl will like bunny pancakes today too," Michonne said sitting him down. "Grab your hat and then you can go downstairs with daddy and look at your fish while I help Aunt Andy finish getting ready okay?"

"Okay mommy," he said running in the bedroom to grab his KCPD hat with Andrea trailing behind him. "Aunt Andy where's my hat?"

"We'll be down soon okay? No more than ten minutes," Michonnes said to Rick. He pulled her to him, giving her a peck on the lips.

"You better be. I worked up quite an appetite this between last night and this morning," he said with a smirk. She pushed him away with pretend anger just as her son and best friend walked back in the room. "You ready to go Deputy?" Andre nodded, grabbing his hand.

Andrea walked over and handed Rick Andre's bag that contained his emergency clothes, books and epi-pen. "Here's his bag. Tell Shane were coming soon."

"Sure I'll tell him. I'm sure 'Chonne will be coming soon too," he said with a wink as he and Andre left the room.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Shane Walsh walked in the lobby with his nephew looking for Rick. He'd called him three times and all three calls had gone unanswered. "Why isn't your dad answering his phone?" he asked Carl.

"I don't know. He didn't answer my call either."

"Well, how in hell are we supposed to know where to meet up?" Shane said placing a call to Rick again.

"Calm down Uncle Shane. I bet they're by the fish pond that Andre loves," Carl said now leading the way. Rounding the corner he saw his father and brother pointing and feeding the fish. "See I told you. What's up dad? Hey there Dre," he said giving his little brother a high five.

"Hi Carl! We're feeding Marie and her family. Do you think Marie would like bunny pancakes?" Andre asked excitedly.

Carl laughed and rubbed his head. "Fish don't eat pancakes Dre. But I do so maybe I'll have some bunny pancakes too."

Shane looked at Rick, who was smiling at his boys, looking more relaxed than Shane had seen him in years. "Thanks for picking up Carl. Your breakfast is on me today."

"It was no problem brother. Why couldn't you bring him?"

"Well, I, ugh, came over early to talk to 'Chonne and iron out some issues," he said avoiding his partners eyes.

Shane raised his eyebrows skeptically. Judging by Rick's previously relaxed demeanor, Shane would bet his life savings that there had been more than 'talking' going on in Michonne's penthouse last night. He decided to drop the subject for the time being. "Why aren't you answering your phone? Both Carl and I tried calling you."

Rick reached in down, patting all his pockets. "Damn it. I must have left upstairs at Michonne's."

"Really? It was you leaving your phone at Michonne's that got you in this situation to begin with! Haven't you learned your damn lesson?"

"Shut up Shane. I can guarantee that no females are going to be calling my phone now except for Michonne or my mother. Now can you please watch the boys while I go and get it?" he said running his hand through his hair in frustration.

Shane could tell that he was ruining his friends good mood. "I'm sorry Rick. I was just joking with you. Listen, I'll go upstairs and get your phone. I'll be back soon and you can have fun with your sons, okay?"

"Thanks Shane. It should be on the nightstand in Dre's room," Rick said handing over the swipe card.

"No problem buddy. I'll be back before you know it." And with that Shane started towards the elevator.

A few minutes later

Shane had just found Rick's phone in Andre's room when he heard the door to the penthouse open.

"I can't believe you changed your entire outfit and now need to borrow my shoes. I told Rick we wouldn't take that long," he heard Michonne say as the friends walked to the master bedroom."

"We all know Rick would wait until the end of time for you. Besides I just want to try on two pairs. Maybe three," Andrea replied.

"Drea!" Michonne moaned out and Shane heard a sound as if someone had fallen on the bed. "I just want this day to be over. No offense to you but I'm just so tired," her voice muffled from the comforter.

"Didn't get much sleep last night?" Andrea asked a little bit too innocently but the exhausted Michonne didn't notice.

"Something like that. Did you decide on a shoe yet," Michonne asked and Shane could tell that she was uncomfortable with the subject, same as Rick had been downstairs. Something had gone down with the two of them last night and he was determined to find out what.

"What does something like that even mean Meesch? And I want the truth!"

Michonne sighed before she started talking. "I'm tired because Rick came over last night to confess his true feelings for me."

"What are his true feelings for you?"

"He told me that he loved me. That he's never stopped loving me and even came to Atlanta looking for me. And… and I told him the same thing. We decided that we were going to try and be a family. For the kids and for us."

"That's wonderful! I told you he loved you! Anything else?"

"He…he then proceeded to fuck me in every room of this suite with the exception of Andre's room."

Shane heard Andrea squeal and jump on the bed. "I knew it. You finally got some of that Rick Grimes dick! It's about time! Girl how was it? It must have been pretty great of you're so tired."

"Andrea I can't breath! Get off of me!" Michonne yelped.

"Not unless you tell me!"

"Okay I swear!" Shane heard the mattress shift again as the friends moved around. "Well… he was… there are no words."

"Listen here Michonne Anthony! I have watched you moon over this guy for years. 'Rick Grimes and his fantastic stroke and tongue game'. There are no words? You better find some words and I don't care if you have to make them up!"

Shane almost laughed out loud, covering his mouth with his hand as he continued to ease drop. He loved the fire and spunk that Andrea possessed. It was so hot!

"If you're going to be that way about it, how can I phrase this?" Michonne pondered. "Remember how we used to listen to music before we would go out and laugh about the lyrics? How we laughed about the phrase 'beat it up' and wondered because no guy had ever even come close to making us feel that way? Well after last night, I now know what the phrase means."

Andrea gasped. "Michonne! Get fuck outta here!"

"Drea I'm not joking! That line by 2Chainz on 'Mercy?' Where he says 'beat it up like Rampage'? Yeah! Rick Grimes officially murdered my pussy last night and this morning. I've never cum so much or so hard in my life!"

"But you said he was fantastic when you guys met in Washington. He's gotten better?"

"I don't know if Shane was lying about how many people he was been with since me or if he just watches a lot of porn now, but he has gotten better. And bigger! How is that possible?"

Andrea thought for a minute. "Well, you did say he's buffed up some right? There is that theory about guys and leg work outs. Maybe it's true? That or your chocha's gotten smaller," she said laughing.

Michonne laughed too. "Even though I do my kegels multiple times a day, I still had a baby so I don't think that's it. BTW my mouth hasn't gotten smaller and that says he's bigger too of you get my drift. I swear Drea, the last time we did it this morning I thought I saw God."

"Damn! Sounds like a total keeper! At least your vagina thinks so." Shane could tell that they were hugging. "I'm so happy for you Meesch! And I do want more details but let's get this show on the road. Listening to your sexcapades made me hungry. Now where are those shoes?"

Shane took the opportunity to sneak out of the suite and on to the elevator. So his friend had finally gotten what he'd been dreaming of for almost five years: confirmation of Michonne's love for him. No wonder he was so happy. That and the fact that he'd had incredible sex all night and into the morning. Shane couldn't wait to talk to him about it!

Strolling back to where he left his best friend he saw Rick sitting at a table, drinking coffee and watching Carl and Andre play. "What took you so long? It wasn't in Andre's room?" Rick asked as Shane sat down next to him before handing him back his phone.

"I just got a little distracted that's all. So what did you say you were doin' last night that you couldn't bring Carl today?"

"Really? This again Shane?"

Shane leaned back in his chair with his hands behind his head. "I was just wonderin' if you had an alibi for this 187 I plan on arresting you for."

"A 187? I told you I was with Michonne. What are you talking about?" Rick said looking confused as ever.

"I'm talking about the fact that I need to handcuff your ass and take you down to the station because evidently you murdered Michonne's pussy last night!" Shane crowed as he watched Rick's face turn beet red. "Why're you holdin' back man? We're supposed to be best friends!"

"How do you know we had sex?" Rick whispered, looking at his sons who weren't paying the adults any attention.

"Besides you bein' more relaxed than I've seen you in years? When I went to get your phone Andrea and Michonne came in. Michonne was complaining 'bout being tired and Andrea got it out of her. According to Michonne she saw god you were so good and she was wonderin' if you had really only been with one person since her. Either you've been paying more attention to my stories or I need to take some pointers from you now!"

"Michonne really said that?" Rick said with a sly grin taking over his face. Shane could tell that he was pleased with himself and it seemed rightfully so.

"She sure did. Also quoted some line 'bout you beatin' it up like Rampage. You know the MMA guy," he added seeing that his oldest friend didn't get the reference. Shane hit him on the back. "Boy you did the damn thing! Next time she's going to be speaking in tongues if you keep this up."

A slow blush rose to Rick's face causing Shane's eyes to go wide " No she didn't! Details I want details!"

Before Rick could respond, Michonne and Andrea came into view looking like a pair of goddess. Andrea had on white skinny jeans and a flowing baby blue blouse with matching high heel shoes. Her blonde hair was styled in an elegant French braid down her back. Michonne had also changed into a yellow and white maxi dress with a spaghetti straps and a side split, allowing a glimpse of her impossibly long, toned leg as she walked. Once again, she'd decided to simply leave her dreads down but they were held from her face by a matching bright yellow head band. "Whoa," Shane heard Carl utter the same thoughts he was thinking and he was sure Rick was too.

"Sorry about the delay guys but someone needed to borrow shoes and a purse," Michonne said strolling up to Rick and embracing him. "Hey Shane and Carl."

"Whatever trick. You changed too," Andrea retorted before giving Shane wrapping her arms around Shane's waist. "Now who's hungry for some bunny pancakes and mimosas?"

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

" Look Carl! I killed one of the pigs! Now it's bacon time!" Andre exclaimed, receiving a high five from his brother.

Carl was sitting at the table showing Andre how to play Angry Birds in Space and he couldn't remember a time recently that he'd been happier. The six of them were sitting on the patio, basking in the sun and waterfront view after a fantastic meal. His dad was sitting on the other side of Andre with his arm around Michonne's chair, his fingers tracing small patterns on her back as the adults laughed and talked. Every so often he would look up to catch Rick just staring at Michonne with a goofy smile on his face. He'd basically been walking around like that all day.

"Grimes party of 6," Michonne said to the hostess as they stood at the podium waiting to be escorted to their table.

"It's a beautiful day outside and we have one large table available. Would you like to sit there? It's a water view," the hostess asked. " Would you like to see the swans gorgeous?" she asked Andre who was once again in Rick's arms. The little boy nodded excitedly.

Rick laughed. "I guess we're sitting outside then ya'll," he said to his group as he followed their guide to their table, which had a nice cross breeze.

"Well if it isn't my favorite little guy! Hey Andre, I haven't seen you in a week," the server exclaimed as she walked over to the table. "I'm sorry Ms. Anthony. Hello everyone. My name's Lacey and I'll be your server today," she said her cheeks red.

"That's okay Lacey. I was hoping you would be working today since you took such great care of us the last time we were here. And don't worry, you're Andre's favorite too," Michonne reassured the young lady.

"Well thank you! Looks like you made some friends since I last saw you Dre."

"These aren't my friends! They're my family. Well Carl is my best friend and big brother but this is my Aunt Andy, my Uncle Shane, my daddy and my mommy," Andre corrected.

Carl smiled to himself as the grin that had expanded over his father's face at Andre's introductions. He'd puffed out his chest even more when his coworker Leon came over after spotting them on his way back to his table.

"Hey Shane. Rick," Leon nodded to the men who rose to shake his hand. "How are you doing this fine Sunday?"

"Good, good. Leon you know Carl and Shane of course but this is my girlfriend Michonne, her best friend Andrea and my son Andre."

"Nice to meet you ladies. Your son you said? No way this handsome little devil can possibly be yours," Leon joked punching him in the shoulder. "Just kidding. When are you coming back to work? We all miss you."

"In a couple weeks. I took some time off to hang with my boys."

"Well pardon my interruption while I let you get back to your meal. Again it was nice to meet you Michonne, Andrea and Andre."

It had been that way all afternoon; it seemed like everyone in town wanted to stop by their table to see one of Kings County's most popular residents, that they'd heard was taking a personal leave of absence. The word had spread about Andre, who seemed to captivate anyone he came in contact with, the KCPD hat he always wore adding to their fascination with him. The addition of the beautiful, classy and exotic Michonne plus her equally stunning best friend who it seemed had captured Shane's attention made Carl's new and extended family the hot topic of conversation.

Carl was enjoying the fact that his once sad and sullen father was now radiating immense happiness. If anyone deserved to be happy it was his dad who had been alone, besides him, for so long. He didn't have to worry about that anymore because Andre would at least be spending the weekends at their house. In fact they were going shopping to decorate his room today after they ate. However with Rick now introducing Michonne as his girlfriend, Carl wondered if not only Andre but also Michonne would be spending the weekends in Kings County.

'Maybe they'll move in for good,' Carl thought to himself. The thought made him giddy in fact. 'Dad being happy with Michonne, Andre and me would make mom so mad.' While Carl loved his mother he was still felt she deserved to suffer at least a little bit, the way she'd caused his dad to.

"Okay. Who's ready to go shopping so that we can decorate their new room?" Rick said standing up.

" I am daddy! I am! I want an X-men room!" Andre said jumping up and down.

"If it's okay with your mother you can have whatever you want, Deputy," he said swinging the boy up against his hip once again causing Michonne to roll her eyes.

"Rick. We've talked about this. He can walk you know. He's been doing it for years."

"I know he can Michonne but this is all new to me okay. I didn't get to carry him around when he was a baby."

"My other daddy carried me when I was a baby. Him and Pop Pop and Maman, and Mi…" Andre interjected.

"That's enough Peanut. I was talking to your daddy. What did I tell you about interrupting grown peoples conversation?" Michonne asked him as she stood in front if Rick.

"Never interrupt and don't speak unless spoken to," Andre murmured looking down at the ground. "I'm sorry mommy. I'm sorry daddy."

"Don't make me have to tell you again young man or else you get a time out," Michonne looked at Rick who's face had dropped the smile and was clearly annoyed. "You're right Rick. He's your son too. Carry him as much as you want."

Rick just nodded, walking out of the restaurant and towards their ride, Andre in his arms. Carl had watched the whole interaction as it happened. He could tell that his father was clearly upset and he knew it had to do with Andre mentioning his 'other daddy' a concept Carl really didn't understand either.

Andrea came up and rubbed Michonne's back before Shane pulled her into a hug. "Just tell him and he'll understand. Right now Rick's in the dark and still hurting," he said releasing her.

"Are you sure? I can't hurt him again. I love him too much."

"He's my best friend and brother Michonne. I know him better than anybody and he knows me. He'll understand. I promise. Rick not knowing why his kid calls some other man daddy is hurting him," Shane said handing her a tissue. Michonne nodded and they walked out to the parking lot where Rick had already buckled Andre in and turned on the air.

"We'll met you at the store, go ahead," Rick said to Shane and Andrea as they climbed in his truck. "Carl get in the car with your brother while I talk to Michonne."

Carl nodded and slid into his seat in the cool car. Andre was back to trying to play Angry Birds on the tablet, oblivious to anything else. Carl reached up front and turned the down the air, cracking the window so that he could hear what his dad and Michonne were talking about.

"Rick I'm sorry. Andre's your child too and it's my fault that you missed out all that time with him," she said putting her hand on his chest. "You did a wonderful job raising Carl. You're allowed to do whatever you want and give him whatever you want. As long as its not too much sugar or strawberries. Definitely no strawberries." Carl could tell she was trying to lighten the mood, a small smile on her face even as tears glistened in her eyes.

Rick pinched the bridge of his nose with his eyes closed before pulling Michonne to him and pressing her against him. "We've been over this 'Chonne. It's all our fault not just yours. We just need to talk later. Can we do that?" Michonne nodded and he kissed the top of her head. "I love you Michonne. You, Andre and Carl are my life."

"I love you too Rick. You and our family," she gave him a soft peck on the lips before letting go and walking to the get in the passenger side of her car, allowing Rick to drive the Mercedes.

'That was deep. Deep but good," Carl thought to himself as he let out a breath, remembering how his mom and dads arguments used to go. His dad actually wanted to talk about the problem with Michonne and she wasn't yelling at him. Yeah, this relationship was much better for his dad.

"So Carl, you're allowed to get whatever you need to update your room as well," Michonne called to him from the front as they drove towards the Lowes, shaking him from his thoughts.

"Really? Why?"

"Well, it's not fair that Andre gets a whole new room and you get nothing. I'm not saying go crazy or anything, but I'm sure here's something you want to change about your room. All teenagers do," she said matter of factly.

"Thanks Michonne. I'll think about it now." He leaned his head back and closed his eyes. 'Yeah,' he though. 'Today is a great day.'

Buzz buzz. Buzz buzz.

Carl looked down at his phone and saw he had an email. Opening up he read it, before reading it again. "Hey dad? When is the last time you check your email?"

"Not for a few days. Why Carl?" Rick replied glancing at him in the rear view mirror.

"Well…I just got an email from Gammy. She said that their cruise is docking early and they need you to pick them up at the airport on Tuesday."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Later that night back at the Grimes house

Rick walked down the stairs and into the kitchen to grab a glass of water. He was parched after reading Andre no less than four bedtime stories. After the second one, Michonne had left saying that Andre was smarter than he looked and was working Rick. However Rick didn't care if he was being "worked" or not; it had been so long since he'd read bedtime stories to a child and he loved it.

"Michonne?" he called walking into his bedroom only to find it empty . He checked the guest bedroom and bath but she wasn't there either. He was about to go check upstairs when he heard voices coming from the back patio.

"Thanks for helping me pick out stuff to update my room Michonne. Changing the furniture around will give me more space for my new desk and computer," Carl was telling her. "I also like your idea for the paint colors."

"Well you know, sometimes all you need is a woman's touch," she said smiling as they leaned on the railing and looked out at the backyard, listening to the crickets. "I wish I could help you guys paint tomorrow but someone needs to pay for my comic book collection!"

"You're by far the coolest person my dad's ever dated. Not that it's been that many others," he quickly added.

"Thanks, I think," she laughed out. Michonne turned and looked at her boyfriend's older son. "I haven't really had the chance to talk to you alone Carl. How are you feeling about all this? I mean, you now have a little brother and his comic book loving, lawyer mom staying at your house. I imagine it's a lot for you to deal with in such a short amount of time. It's been a lot of me and I'm an adult."

"I always wanted a little brother. Now I have one plus I missed the smelly diaper part," he joked before turning serious. Carl was silent for a moment as if trying to find the right words. "I love having Andre around. It's crazy because from the moment I saw him, I felt drawn to him and when I saw him alone I knew I had to help him. I mean, I would've helped any kid but…there was just this familiar feeling I got when I looked at him. Dad said that Uncle Shane believes it was fate."

"Fate huh? The way things have happened certainly makes me a bigger believer in fate than I was before."

"If it wasn't for my stupid mom then we would have met years ago! If it wasn't for her, dad would've known about Dre from the get go and you guys wouldn't argue about how much he carries him around or his 'other daddy'."

"Carl, it' not fair to blame just your mom…"

"Don't tell me what's not fair or who I should blame!" Rick looked at his son, still hidden by the darkness of the living room and saw that Carl's normally fair skin was red in anger. "I blame a lot of people. I blame my mom for being a twisted bitch that's evil enough to even think up what she did and for not wanting my dad to be happy even though that's all he ever wanted for us. He worked so much so that we could go on our vacations and have all the latest stuff both my mom and I asked for. I blame you for listening to her not once but twice. If you fell in love with my dad that week, how could you even think he was that type of person to do the things she said? I blame my dad for never talking, not just to my mom or you but to anyone! If he'd learned from what happened with my mom, then he would've said what he needed to then and you wouldn't have left Washington without saying good bye. But the person I blame the most is myself. If I hadn't asked for so much then dad could've worked less. If I wasn't so greedy then my mom couldn't have bribed me to stay quiet with her secrets." Tears fell down Carl's face as he leaned against the rail with eyes closed, arms crossed as if he were try to hold himself together. "I'm just as much to blame as you guys," he whispered.

Michonne walked over, putting her hands on the young boys shoulders. " Carl? Carl open your eyes and look at me," she said softly. Carl slowly opened his eyes and looked at her. " Don't you ever blame yourself for this mess! You were just an innocent little boy that had his trust violated by one of the people he was supposed to trust the most in this world. You're allowed to ask for things! Your dad didn't work just to give you things. He worked to make you happy. You see how he is with Andre. He could've just had back surgery and he would still try and pick him up because Andre loves being carried around. All most parents want is for their kids to be healthy and happy. Your dad's love for you is one of the reasons that I fell in love with him and one of the reasons I left. " She pulled Carl into a hug, wrapping her strong arms around him. "All of us adults are to blame, some more than others but you have nothing to blame yourself for! I never want to hear you say anything like that ever again. And Andre's little so I'm going to be around for a long time. At least until you're 30," she said with a small chuckle trying to bring lightness to the situation.

Carl pulled away, a laugh coming from his lips as he wiped his face. "Well that's only like 15 years away so I hope you plan on being around for way longer than that. I like you Michonne. I can't remember the last time my dad was this happy and it's not just because of Andre. It's because of you too. He really loves you and I can tell you love him back. We can really be the family that Andre deserves."

"I like you too Carl. But Andre's not the only one that deserves this family kiddo. You and your father both deserve this family too."

"You were so cool until you just got sappy on me. Ugh," Carl bent over pretending to throw up.

"Oh really? I'm sappy but you were the one that started crying during '28 Days Later' the other night, " Michonne retorted, one eyebrow raised.

"I wasn't crying! Dust from the table got in my eye. Dad needs to clean more."

"Yeah right. I happen to know your dad cleaned the living room table the night before because he split water on it. Try again my friend."

Rick looked on with a smile as his girlfriend and son joked back and forth. He'd thought that he couldn't possibly love either of them more than he already did but once again he was proven wrong. Both of them had huge hearts and compassion even though they had every right to be cold and evil. Despite everything that happened, the two had already began to form a connection that he knew was only going to grow.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Rick walked out of his bathroom, towel still draped low around his waist and sat on the bed. His phone had rang while he watched Carl and Michonne banter back and forth on the patio, James Taylor alerting him that it was Shane. They'd talked for about an hour, which was quite a long time for them but Shane had wanted to gush about Andrea's condo in downtown Atlanta which, according to her 'didn't hold a candle to Michonne's'. He was about to go looking for the dreaded beauty when she walked through the door, sweat glistening on her skin.

"Where have you been?" he questioned as he looked at her removing her soaked shirt.

"I came by but saw you on the phone and didn't want to disturb you. I haven't taken a good run in a while so I decided to take one tonight. Gonna go take a shower now," she said walking over and giving him a peck on the lips before going to the bathroom, shutting the door behind her.

Hearing the water turn on, he closed his eyes and laid his head back against the headboard. Today had once again become a roller-coaster of emotions for him but the over all feeling was one of contentment. Rick hoped it would continue as he prepared to have another much needed conversation with Michonne.

Every time Andre mentioned his 'other daddy' it was like a knife to Rick's stomach. He knew that his son had just learned that he was his father and when he got older it would stop. However that didn't make it any easier to deal with. Shane had assured him that this was a minor stepping stone that he and Michonne would have to navigate together. Andrea had told Shane about the circumstances surrounding Michonne's relationship with said man and that she planned to talk to him about it tonight.

He heard the shower turn off and then the sound of Michonne brushing her teeth. Knowing that would take at least five to ten minutes, he decided to send a text to Shane.

'Michonne just got back from a run. Waiting for her to get out of the shower so we can talk.'

'Sounds good. She told Andrea that she was going to tell you tonight. Just make sure that you listen to her before you go flying off the handle. Not that there's any reason to but still.'

'I won't. I promise. Carl and I have to pick up my parents on Tuesday and I would like to be the one that informs them of all that's happened before they hear the wrong story from the Kings County grapevine'

'Well, you know I'm here if you need to talk. I'll try to hold off on giving Andrea the 187 treatment until I hear from you. Lmfao'

'Shut up Shane!'

'Love you too, Rick.'

"Why are you still sitting in a damp towel," Michonne asked as she patted her dreads dry with a towel. Rick's mouth went dry as she stood there in a pair of black boy shorts and matching black tank top. A few stray drops of water rolled down her neck from her dreads. He was instantly hard. "Hello? Rick Grimes I'm talking to you," she waved her hand to get his attention, a knowing smirk on her face.

"Oh, I heard you. It's comfortable," he replied happy that he had a pillow covering his lap and trying to will his erection away. He really didn't want to have such an important conversation with half his blood pumping to the wrong head.

"I hope you know that if you expect me to sleep in here, then you're sleeping on that side. I'm sure it's damp. I don't do damp." She sat down rubbing lotion on her legs.

It took him everything in his power to not say what popped into his head or else there would be no talking that night and it was a conversation that had to happen. "I heard you and Carl on the patio earlier."

"You did? Why didn't you join us?"

Rick shrugged his shoulders. "I thought you two could stand to get to know each other a little bit. How'd it go?"

"Well, he has a lot of guilt which he has no right to. It's going to be hard to get to him to forgive Lori. I'm thinking some therapy needs to happen. For all of you. Maybe even me."

"Really? Therapy Michonne?"

"I don't mean that you all go in at once. I mean you each have your private sessions and then have one together. It really worked for Andrea and her family when they fell apart and even though Andrea was older than Carl, she was much more angry I think." Michonne put her hand on Rick's knee. "Carl's a great kid but so much anger at his age is a recipe for disaster. I don't want his anger plus his hormones to take him down the wrong path. Promise me you'll think about it at least."

He grabbed her hand, bringing it to his mouth and brushing his lips against her knuckles. "No you're right. I see it as a cop all the time. I promise to think about it and talk it over with him."

"Carl brought up another point that I think we need to talk about. Andre's other daddy. I know it hurts you whenever he says it and I believe that he'll out grow it as he gets older and spends more time with you. But you deserve to know who he believed his father was and why." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to get herself together.

"It's okay Michonne. Take all the time you need," Rick said softly, rubbing circles over her knuckles.

She nodded before lifting her head to look him in the eyes. He saw tears glistening in her honey brown orbs as she began to talk. "Andre believes that his father was Andrea's brother and my other best friend Daryl."

"What?" Rick was confused. He recalled Michonne mentioning the man often when they in Washington, almost as much as she'd mentioned Andrea. But she'd never implied they were more than just friends. "Why would he ever think that?"

"Because I married him Rick and because he has his last name. My parents and Andrea's parents, along with everyone in Atlanta thinks that. Only Andrea knows the truth."

"You married him?" Rick stood up from the bed in disbelief, his erection totally gone by now and his anger rising. "How could you marry him Michonne?"

"Rick, please sit down and try to be calm. I'm trying to explain everything to you but I need you calm and be willing to hear me out."

Rick ran his hand over his face in frustration before joining her on the bed again. He'd told Shane that he would hear her out. "Go on. Continue your story."

"I told you I was in Paris for about 6 weeks when I started feeling extremely tired. I thought it was because I was still depressed over you and working so much so that I wouldn't have time to think about you. It wasn't until I couldn't walk past a boulangerie without getting nauseous that I figured what was up. I took a test, then went to the doctor and confirmed I was pregnant. First thing I did was call Andrea and Daryl to tell them what was going on. They knew all about us by that point, so I can't say they were shocked. I called my dad and told him that I needed to come home, but not the reason why. Two days before I was set to fly out, Daryl surprised me in Paris to accompany me home since I was having horrible morning sickness by this point. He'd taken an emergency leave from the army to come and get me. I should have realized his feelings then but I didn't." She took another deep breath and Rick could tell she was remembering.

"When I got home I didn't know what to do. How was I supposed to tell my parents that I was pregnant when I wasn't dating anyone to their knowledge? So it was a surprise when Daryl took me out to dinner one night and proposed to me. He knew what type environment we'd both grown up in and even though it was the 21st century, we still came from the south and prominent Atlanta families. No matter how great a lawyer and person I was, I would still be looked down upon and so would my child. So he offered to marry me to save us from the embarrassment and shame that I was sure to face. He knew you were white and had bleu eyes just like him so he figured that it would be easy for people to believe that he was Andre's dad and it turns out he was right. No one ever doubted it, at least out loud to either of us, even though I think my parents had their doubts at times. However since Daryl was at the going away party that they had before I left for Washington, they figured it happened then. I asked him why he would risk his happiness for mine and he said…he said that he loved me. That he'd loved me since he first saw me and that my happiness plus the happiness of my child was all that mattered to him. That fake or not marrying me would make him the happiest person in the world. He'd even asked my father for his permission, which he willingly gave since he adored Daryl. So I made him the happiest man and agreed."

"He was the guy I saw you with in the lobby," Rick realized with a sad sigh. He understood how anyone could fall in love with Michonne and want to marry her. He was just upset it wasn't him first.

"Yeah he was. He raised Andre as his own but always urged me to tell you about him. I don't know why but he did. He also made sure to tell me that if you and I ever found our way back together that he would step aside because he knew my heart belonged to you and Andre deserved to be with his real father."

"What happened to him? Where's Daryl now Michonne? Did you divorce since you go by the last name "Anthony" again?"

Michonne stood up and walked to the window, staring out at the night sky. Rick followed and stood behind her. "Daryl was there pretty much from the moment Andre was born until he was about 13 months old. He was going to do one more tour for a year, maybe less if he could get away with it. He wanted to be there to see Andre grow up." She paused and Rick saw through her reflection in the glass that she was crying. "Daryl had been gone for about two months when I got the knock no one ever wants at my door. I knew something was wrong because he never went more than three days without emailing or seeing us on Skype and it had been a week at this point. He was dead," she said the last point in a whisper.

Rick felt his stomach drop. Having made those house calls before he knew the pain associated with them. Part of him felt like a jerk; he hadn't even entertained the thought of the man who'd help raise his son dying. He didn't know what to say. I'm sorry didn't even come close, so he just turned Michonne around hugging her tightly as she cried. He would never even get to say thank you to the man had filled in for him when he wasn't able to be there.

"So as Andre got older and I would show him pictures, Daryl was his daddy. Not to mention that Daryl and Andrea's parents believe that's their grandson. As he gets older, he looks less like Daryl and more like you but I think they want to believe it so that a piece of him lives on."

"Where do I come in? When did you start telling Andre that he had two daddies?"

"Daryl had written me a letter and given it to his lawyer. He knew that being a solider he could die anytime and wanted to make sure we knew his last wishes for each of us. He wrote a letter to every member of his family, including one to Andre that isn't to be opened by anyone but him when he's 18 years old. Anyway, in my letter he said that if I was reading it, he was clearly dead. It urged me to tell you about Andre and Andre about you when I felt the time was right. That wasting time was stupid. So I would tell Andre about you with his bedtime stories when I told him about Daryl. So there you go. Whenever anyone wonders why our son mentions his 'other daddy' you can tell them that he was a warrior and a friend that loved your son with all his heart. Tell them that"

Rick took her hand and led her over to his bed and after sitting down, pulled her into his lap. " 'Chonne I don't care what anyone says about you or Andre. You're my family and I wanted to know. I think Carl and my parents deserve the right to know but anyone else can fuck off."

"You're not mad then?" she asked peering up at him.

"Michonne we both made mistakes. Luckily for both of us, we've had an amazing supporting cast to help raise our kids and make them the great boys they are. I'm sad that he married you first. That he's the one that got to ask your father for your hand in marriage first. That your dad doesn't even know who I am. But most of all I'm sad that I'll never get to shake the hand of the man that cared and took care of you and my son when I couldn't."

"I love you Rick," Michonne said wrapping her arms around his neck. "Thank you. Thank you for understanding all of this."

"I love you too baby," he said before giving her a peck on the lips. The peck soon morphed into a deep sensuous kiss, their tongues caressing as he ran his hands over her body. He broke the kiss, his eyes clouded with a mixture of love and lust. "Before we start down the road that this seems to be headed, we still need to talk about my parents. And yours."

"Ugh. This is going to be so much fun," Michonne said sarcastically, laying her head on his shoulder. "Well, you know Andre's birthday party is this weekend at my parents house and I feel you should meet each other before then. Do you want your parents to be there too?"

Rick nodded. "I do and I think once they find out about him they'd be upset if they weren't invited. I was thinking that Carl and I would pick up my parents from the airport on Tuesday and tell'em then. I feel it would be a little overwhelming to have you and Andre there. What do you think? Do you want to be there?"

Michonne shook her head vehemently. "God no! You really think I want to be there when you tell your parents that they have a half black almost four year old grandson that you fathered while separated from your evil ex-wife and that she's the reason why you never knew? I'll pass!"

"Well if you put it that way, then I'm gonna say that I don't even want to be there," Rick said with a smile.

"But I do think we're on the same page because since Carl said they were coming home early, I've been thinking of taking Andre back with me to Atlanta to tell my parents on Tuesday as well. Then if everything goes as well as can be expected, we have both sets of parents come here for dinner on Wednesday and everyone can meet. That way if they disagree on something and feel they want to leave they can. Plus we can send the boys to play in the backyard while us adults talk, something we couldn't do at a restaurant "

"Sounds like a plan. By having dinner here, we won't have to worry about being interrupted by servers or other in town busy bodies. There will be no gossiping going on at other tables about us," He gave her another peck on the lips. "Plus my parents can see what a fantastic cook you are and how well you've taken care of everything around here. You're too smart 'Chonne."

"I'm a lawyer and a mom. It's my job to think about all the small details," she laughed as he kissed her neck.

"And you are damn good at being both," he murmured against her skin. "Now what were you saying earlier about sleeping in a damp spot?"

"I said that's your side mister," giving him a quick kiss again.

"Hmmm…how do you feel about sleeping in a wet spot then? It can be arranged," Rick answered with a devilish glint in his sea bleu eyes before he flipped her over on her back as she giggled. "One wet spot for Michonne Anthony coming right up!"

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So this was my longest chapter by far and I hope I provided answers to some of your questions. Some of you figured it out along the way as I have been dropping hints about Daryl throughout the story. Was anybody surprised?

I wanted this chapter to include humor from my resident comic relief pair of Andrea and Shane. A tad bit of smut for Richonne since they are a new couple. But I also wanted to start establishing the relationship of Carchonne, plus how Carl is handling the situation. And of course the cuteness that is Andre Anthony Grimes of course. What did you think?

Once again comment, criticize, and PM me because I will answer as all of you who have know by now.

Thanks again to the wonderful Zeejack!

Vegaslover

P.S. Michonne's ring tone for Andrea is " Anytime You Need A Friend" by Mariah Carey. Rick's for Shane is "You've Got A Friend" by Janes Taylor.

P.P.S. What Michonne said to Rick was " Yes. Fill me, I love you." in French. He DID have her speaking in tongues!