Chapter 38: Sometimes
I wanna believe in everything that you say
Cause it sounds so good
But if you really want me baby, move slow
There's things about me you just have to know
-Britney Spears, Sometimes
The last thing Daryl Dixon expected to find at the end of the world was a woman who loved him.
The woods were thick and silent, save for the sounds of wildlife, and Daryl took respite in the quiet. As close as he could figure, it had been four years since the collapse of the world as humanity knew it. Oddly enough, however, he had adapted to this world better than he ever had in the previous one. He knew where he stood in this dangerous new world. He was a provider, a protector, someone who was needed and looked to in his small circle. He understood his role.
What he couldn't understand was how a woman could possibly love him as much as Carol claimed to.
When he had first met Carol in a rock quarry outside of Altanta, she was a mousish little woman who skittered and ran from her own shadow. After losing her little girl, she had changed. She had to learn to adapt, just like everyone else in the brutal new reality they were confronted with. Now she was a respected member of their group who made choices and fought to protect those she had come to love.
Including Daryl.
As if brought about by the very thought of her, Carol materialized beside him, her own crossbow clutched in her hands. He turned his head slightly and observed her.
How could such a small woman be such a force to reckon with?
As he contemplated that thought, a deer appeared in the clearing ahead of them. Before Daryl could take aim, Carol let loose a bow that hit its target with deadly accuracy. The deer skidded sideways before collapsing to the ground.
Carol gave Daryl a wicked grin before she slipped over to the deer and removed her arrow. It wasn't very big, but it would provide meat for their group for a few days, at least. Daryl joined her and bent down, examining the deer.
"Good job," he praised a few moments later.
She blushed and nodded her appreciation. "Thanks."
He pushed himself back to his feet and took hold of the deer's hind legs. "Let's get it back to the group." He was glad they weren't too far from their camp; the walk would be a bit of a strain but well worth it. An unexpected surge of pride welled up in him as he watched Carol grab the deer's front legs.
Working together, they were able to drag the deer back to their camp, where they were met with praise and gratitude. They relinquished the deer to Rick and Carol gave Daryl a grin.
Before he could stop himself, he leaned over and lightly kissed her lips, leaving the woman stunned. She started to open her mouth, but he quickly turned and took off for the safety of the showers.
Maybe one day he would be able to hold and kiss her the way she deserved, but until then his only recourse was to hide.
Sometimes I run, sometimes I hide
Sometimes I'm scared of you
But all I really want is to hold you tight
Treat you right, be with you day and night
Baby, all I need is time