Hi everyone! Thank you for all your kind words. Your comments and private messages give me life! lol For real. :) Loved reading every single one of them! I'll try to reply to your comments at the start of the next chapter. By the way, sorry for the VERY delayed update. This was written this afternoon, so please excuse any grammatical/spelling errors etc. Thank you so much for sticking around for chapter 4! Hope you like it :D
A/N: Please keep in mind that the time line for this fan-fic will either overlap or happen simultaneously in some parts. I hope you can follow the story.
Michonne and Daryl stood side by side. Neither one willing to knock on Deanna's front door. The atmosphere between them is tense and foreboding. Taking a step forward, Michonne inhaled sharply and raised her hand to knock, but hesitated. She looked back at Daryl, hoping for an encouraging smile or nod. Much to her disappointment, she was met with a strained and tired smile as he quickly averted his eyes. It was clear he did not want to be at the party, and his uneasy body language was testament to that. As Michonne watched him momentarily, she began to doubt herself. His anxiety was infectious and unnerving. Am I doing the right thing, she thought to herself. They continued to stand there in silence as they both listened to the muffled sounds of the party within. Michonne swallowed hard, unsure of everything she was about to do next. Pushing her fears aside, she raised her hand once more to knock on Deanna's door. But before her knuckles could touch the door, Daryl's hand shot out to stop her.
Holding her hand in his, he looked at her apprehensively. "When we walk in there, everything will change. Everything." He reiterated while searching her eyes. "Mich, I know we've had this talk…but how do you see this playin' out? I mean, really?"
Pulling away from him, she thought sincerely about his question. "I... I really don't know. All I want, is to put him in his place." She paused once more in thought, only this time it was directed at herself. "Daryl? Does that make me a horrible person?" She asked nervously, unsure as to how he'd answer her.
Daryl scoffed and replied without hesitation, "Of course not, idiot. You're human. But if you're looking to put Rick in his place... Yeah, that's gonna happen. You're gonna get him good. Guaranteed. But, what bout after? Would'ya still want him? Would'ya still love him?" He questioned her further, hoping to understand her endgame or lack thereof.
Michonne became still, reflecting on Daryl's words. She nodded after a moment. "I know, there'll always be something between Rick and I. Would I continue to love him? Yes. Would I still want him? Yes. And I hate that about myself. I hate that I want him and that it hurts me every time I see him with Jessie." She reluctantly admitted staring down at her feet. She could feel herself becoming overly emotional and bit her lip hard in an attempt to stop herself from crying.
Daryl softly draped his arm across her shoulders and pulled her in for a small comforting hug."Yeah." He sighed heavily and lay his head atop of hers. "I thought as much." They stood for a few seconds holding each other before Daryl broke the silence. "Mich, no good can come of this. As clear as day, the guy has feelings for you. I don't know if you get that. You need space, Mich. You both do. Y'all need a minute to think, and sort this out."
She nodded once more. "Yeah, I get it. You're right. We need time apart." She said softly against his chest.
Daryl released her and looked down at her, hardly able to contain his smile. "Really? You know, we don't got to knock on that door. We could just leave." He said, feeling as though a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. "I got some of those herbal teas that you like so much. I was saving 'em for Carol, but you could take a couple if you like?" Daryl offered, hoping that tea would be enough to coax her back home and abandon her original plan.
"That's really sweet of you. Thank you. But…Deanna is expecting us to be here. So we have to go in." She said in an apologetic tone, knowing all too well what Daryl's reaction would be.
Utterly crestfallen, Daryl looked at her in disbelief. "Were you even listening to me?" He asked earnestly. "This is a terrible is idea. We really shouldn't go in."
She chuckled softly and looked up at him. "Yes. Of course I listened. But this isn't about us or Rick. It's about keeping our word and showing Deanna that we are reliable. Trustworthy. Deserving of our positions in this community."
"Yeah, I guess." Daryl said feebly, giving in to her logic but not liking direction of the conversation.
"So, let's go in. Have a little fun, drink, and hangout…be civil and leave before Rick notices us." She said, gently nudging his shoulder.
Daryl rubbed his jaw as he became very serious. "If it's all the same to you, I'd rather not die tonight."
"Stop. Rick won't do anything tonight. Besides, there are too many witnesses." Michonne joked, trying to make light of the situation; hoping it would put Daryl at ease. When he didn't return her smile, she became somber. "Daryl, I'm sorry. But trust me, I know he won't do anything tonight. I won't let anything happen to you. Promise." She felt extreme guilt at what she was forcing him to do, and for the umpteenth time that day thought how grateful she was to have such a loyal friend. "Daryl, look at me. We're not going as a couple. We'll go as friends, OK? Purely platonic. And, we'll keep our distance from Rick and Jessie. I'll sort it out if anything happens."
Unconvinced, Daryl became irritated. "Mich, I ain't even playing no more. You saw how heated he was. He will find us. And when he does, he's gonna put a bullet in my head. Especially with you looking all...sexy." Daryl cringed as he confessed to finding her appearance appealing.
Michonne smiled from ear to ear as her eye brows shot up in surprise. "You think I'm sexy?" She asked mockingly, pretending to pose like a model while blowing kisses at him.
"Stop." He snickered and looked away feeling sheepish.
Michonne smirked at his childlike demeanor and ran her hands down the front of her dress. She flicked her dreads back behind her shoulders and cleared her throat. "OK. But you know, you're pretty hot too." She giggled and confidently placed her hands on her hips. She looked him over and brushed his hair out of his face. "There. She won't be able to resist you. Look at you, all dressed up and looking so handsome. You ready?" She gave him a sly wink, and without waiting for his response she lurched forward and knocked loudly on the door. Daryl stood frozen in his boots, taken off guard. Before he knew what was happening, Michonne's arm was linked with his and they were being welcomed in by Spencer.
Rick leaned uncomfortably against the wall with his arm around Jessie's waist. Michael Bublé's You Don't Know Me began to play in the background while the soft clinking of cutlery and chatter filled the air. His paid no attention to Jessie or the numerous party guests that came and left after trying to engage him in conversation. His mind was elsewhere. Preoccupied with thoughts of Michonne. Thoughts of her tiny grey crop top and plaid shorts. Of her lips, and how she smelled like vanilla. Stop thinking about her, he angrily scolded himself. But it was useless. Michonne lived in every happy memory he played in his mind. Thinking about her made him involuntarily smile; until the events of the rest of that afternoon came flooding in. His jaw clenched and his body stiffened. With anger and jealousy riding high, Rick scanned the room. He quickly noted that Daryl and Michonne where the only ones from his group that were not present. The collar of his shirt suddenly became a little too tight as he quickly undid the top two buttons. With his eyes anchored on the front door, he contemplated leaving the party to look for Michonne. Before his emotions could overtake him, Jessie tapped his arm.
"Rick?" She asked, waiting for him to look at her before she continued. "You know you'll have to eventually tell me what happened at Daryl's."
"Nothing happened. I'm fine." He lied, as guilt and paranoia set in.
"Are you sure? Cause you were grinding your teeth and staring at the front door."
"Not tonight, OK?" He looked down at her and pulled away. Rick became tense under her scrutiny and hoped she wouldn't notice his racing heat beat.
"Um, sure, OK. Do you want another drink?" She asked, not knowing what else to say.
"Yes. Thank you." He nodded and looked back at the door. As Rick stood engulfed in his own thoughts, he was oblivious to Maggie, whom had come to stand beside him as Jessie left.
Rick glared at the door and started to wonder if he even cared for Jessie anymore. Her voice and caress used to be such a soothing balm, something he always welcomed. But recently everything she did grated on his nerves. Feelings of guilty permeated throughout his whole being. I love Jessie. Stop thinking about Michonne, he scolded himself internally. You're with Jessie. You're living with Jessie. Rick continued to assure himself as he tried to suppress his feelings. Besides Michonne is seeing Daryl. Fuck Daryl! His final thoughts made it hard for him to breathe and left his stomach in knots. "Where are you Mich?" He uttered worriedly under his breath.
"Hey. She's gonna be here." Maggie responded loudly to his question, startling Rick.
"Who?" He asked, pretending not to know of whom Maggie was referring to.
Maggie smirked and remained by his side silently observing him.
A loud knock resounded in the foyer. Spencer who was closest to the door strode over to greet the new guests. Rick watched the younger man intently, knowing all the while who would be at the door. Spencer welcomed the guests and moved to the side to allow them to enter. In walked Michonne with her arm linked in Daryl's. They smiled and greeted other guests they passed, and graciously stopped to talk to a few of the older residents. Rick looked back to Spence and noticed his mouth was agape. He was clearly stunned by Michonne's ensemble, but caught himself just in time and adjusted his appearance. Spencer shook his head and smiled. He quickly walked over to Nicholas who had been standing in the corner, waiting patiently to resume their conversation. Rick edged a little closer to listen in on their conversation, pretending to be interested in several books that were within their vicinity.
Spencer's eyes were large with excitement. "Oh. My. God. That dress. That body." He began as Nicholas looked on in amusement. "It's insane how hot she is. It's ridiculous!" Spencer exclaimed and shook his head in disbelief.
Nicholas tried to stifle a laugh. "Who, Michonne? Not my thing." He said shaking his head in disapproval.
"You don't know what you're talking about." Spencer continued breathlessly. "Come with me. You wont be saying that after you get a look at her tonight." He grabbed the front of his friend's shirt and pulled him towards the direction of Michonne. Both men scrambled past Rick, eager to get a look.
Rick's gaze followed the young men as they set up camp across the room ogling Michonne. Rick smiled at how ridiculous they looked. They reminded him of times when he and Shane would hide behind trees in the ninth grade, just to stare at the pretty popular girls. He laughed at the thought, but stopped immediately when Michonne turned to hug Tara and Eugene. For a second he was mesmerized; enjoying the view only for a moment, until he noticed Daryl's hand on her shoulder. Anger rose within him and he found it difficult to stay neutral. He clenched his fists by his side and stared at them intensely.
Maggie, who had seen the whole exchange, cleared her throat to get his attention. "You really, need to stop looking at them like that." She warned.
"Who?" He asked, peeling his eyes away from the happy pair while turning to face Maggie.
"Don't play dumb. They make a cute couple, don't ya think?" She teased, while trying to hide her smile.
Ricks lips thinned and his left eye twitched.
"Hey, you need to relax. I was just playing around with you." She said concerned, realizing the effect her words had on him. "Rick?" She continued gently. "I hope this isn't cause she moved in with Daryl."
Rick eye's flashed with anger. "What?!" He nearly yelled, but stopped himself when he was met with Maggie's stern gaze.
She moved in slightly, and talked to Rick in a hushed tone. Weary of anyone who walked by or stood near. "Rick, Daryl is just a friend. She cares about him deeply, as we all do for each other. I asked her if the reason why she moved out had anything to do with Jessie moving in. She said yes. I think she might have feelings for you Rick. But you'll need to talk to her yourself to find out. I could be wrong."
Rick's stance softened towards Maggie. He thought for a few seconds, but before he could respond Jessie was by his side and placing a cold beverage in his hand. He downed the contents as Jessie looked on in horror.
"Rick, that was a full glass of whisky." Jessie said worriedly.
"Was it? Could you get me another, please?" He asked staring at the empty glass in his hand. Not bothering to acknowledge her presence as she stood beside him.
Jessie smiled and tried conceal her embarrassment in front of Maggie. "Sure" She said warmly and left once more.
Maggie eyes followed Jessie till she was out of earshot. She leaned in and spoke so that only Rick could hear. "You need to take it easy on that girl. It ain't her fault. It's clear you have..." She paused and glanced around for Jessie; then whispered, "…feelings for Michonne. But you need to make your mind up Rick, and decide what you're gonna do with those feelings."
Rick nodded. Maggie could see he was struggling internally with his new and confusing emotions. She leaned in and repeated her sentiments, "Make your mind up Rick. She ain't gonna be single for too long. Especially with all them boys lining up to see her in that little white dress of hers." She gently squeezed his shoulder and left him to his thoughts.
It wasn't long before Rick found himself watching Michonne and Daryl once more. He grew angrier as each second passed that Daryl's hand remained on her shoulder. He could feel his jealously bubbling to the surface again. Rick tried desperately to keep himself in check. He cleared his throat and shifted his weight from one foot to the other. He had to look away when they laughed together and Michonne wrapped her arms around Daryl's waist. His stomach turned and he found it hard to breath. Rick tried to focus on items around the house, but his eyes always found their way back to Michonne - whom now stood snugly under Daryl's arm.
Jessie returned to find a pale Rick leaning against the wall. "You OK?" She asked. "You don't look too good."
"Yeah. It must've been the whisky. I think I'm gonna go out for some air." Rick sighed heavily and rubbed the back of his neck.
"Do you want me to come with you?" She asked, hoping for an opportunity to uncover the real reason why he was acting so aloof.
"No; stay. Enjoy yourself. I need some time alone." Rick said curtly, ending the conversation by walking briskly for the back porch door. He needed to be away from her and from them. Rick knew, that if he hadn't left at the moment, he would've had Daryl in a choke hold or worse.
"By using my astute observational skills. I factored in characteristic traits, verbal and non-verbal communication and other miscellaneous. I would say you were possibly a mechanic or a hick." Eugene surmised but became terrified after he realized what he had just said.
"Whoa, did you just call Daryl Dixon a hick?" Michonne pretended to hold Daryl back by wrapping her arms around his waist as they both laughed.
"Gene, you're lucky I like you." Daryl smiled, showing that he took no offence to the reference. He shook his head and absentmindedly draped his arm around Michonne's shoulders.
"I'm sorry. When I get the neutrons firing in the ole hippocampus, I find it somewhat hard to filter what I say. I, in no way, would intentionally imply that you're a backward country bumpkin or... I'm sorry. I'm truly sorry."
Tara cringed and smiled at Eugene. "You know, you could've just stopped at mechanic." She giggled and softly slapped his arm.
Daryl smiled and became quiet as the girls giggled and thought up different scenarios as to whom would win in a fight between Daryl and Eugene. Every now and then, Eugene's voice would be heard over their laughter; simply stating "Not plausible." or "Highly unlikely."
It was a lively conversation that went on for several minutes. Which Daryl was grateful not to be a part of, but enjoyed being a spectator. He looked around the room for Carol. He found her in the corner of the room on a sofa, curled up next to Tobin. Daryl let out a deep sigh and returned his attention to the conversation at hand. His group had gone from pitting Daryl and Eugene against each other in fictitious situations to what conveniences they most missed about the old world. He listened for a while before checking on Carol again. To his surprise she was no longer on the sofa. He eye's flitted around the room and saw them approaching his small group. Immediately aware of his body language, he dropped his arm from Michonne's frame and took a small step away from her.
Michonne, having picked up on Daryl's agitated state, became anxious. She knew there would only be two people that would evoke this type of reaction from him: Rick or Carol. She straightened her back slightly, steeled herself and waited patiently to hear one of the two voices.
"Hi guys." Carol greeted cheerfully.
Relived that it was not Rick, Michonne turned and smiled."Hi," the group responded in unison apart from Daryl who grunted and nodded in her direction.
"How are the two of you?" Daryl asked, trying to play it cool.
"Good. How's everyone?" Carol replied for both herself and Tobin. She smiled and listened to everyone's response; except for Daryl who remained quiet.
"What about you?" Carol queried and softly touched Daryl's hand, making sure he knew the question was directed at him.
"Uh...yeah, good." He replied bashfully, and quickly dropped his eyes to the floor.
"What happened to your face?" Carol asked, leaning forward and gently ran her fingers across his jawline.
"Uh..." Pulling away, he awkwardly glanced at her through his hair and stared back down at his feet. "Nothin, just some un-neighborly types."
Tara watched their awkward interaction and decided that she and Eugene had somewhere else to be. They quickly excused themselves and left; not before giving Michonne side eyes to tell her to leave as well. Michonne picked up on Tara's cue and asked Tobin if he could help her get drinks for everyone. He obliged; kissed Carol on the forehead and followed Michonne to the drinks table.
"I think you two make an adorable pair." Carol said gesturing towards Michonne.
"What?" Daryl asked, not listening; losing himself momentarily in her clear blue eyes.
"You and Michonne. When did you guys start dating? Didn't she move in with you?" She smiled slyly.
Daryl shifted slightly on his feet, becoming uneasy. "Stop. We ain't dating. We're friends. I care bout her, the same way I care about everyone. Y'all are family to me."
"Could've fooled me." Carol retorted.
"Well, we ain't. We're interested in other people." Daryl eyes remained for a second too long on her lips, before looking around the room.
"Really?" Carol inched closer to him. "Who is this, other mystery woman? An Alexandrian, perhaps?"
Daryl swallowed hard. Oh god, she's so close, he thought to himself. "Well...uh.. she's pretty. Um, and selfless. She's brave and strong. She...she has this smile that makes me..."
"Aww, that's so sweet!" Deanna interjected coming to stand by Carol with a huge grin plastered on her face. "Here I am, looking for Michonne and I find you saying such wonderful things about your lady."
Daryl tried desperately to correct her, but Deanna continued to talk over him. "I've heard a lot about you two from Mrs Neudermyer, which is a welcome change from her regular conversation starter. I swear, that lady needs to stop talking about her damn pasta maker. But anyway, seeing that you're living with Michonne, I know you're the best person to talk to."
"Sure. What is it?" Daryl said, trying to hide his annoyance.
"Great!" Deanna exclaimed and pat his arm, oblivious to his discomfort. "Please let her know that Jessie's old house should be ready for your group to move into - possibly as soon as tomorrow evening. Also, Maggie mentioned something about giving Michonne a new duty for a few months. Something about, not wanting to get too rusty using her katana. So I'm switching Michonne and Glenn's jobs. It should all work out. Oh, and one more thing." Deanna paused to catch her breath and to control her building excitement. "The recruitment trips with you and Aaron will have to be postponed indefinitely. Right now we need the both of you and Michonne's team to go on...very specific runs. Runs for...medicine, hospital beds, diapers, formula, and other baby related items. Tell her to come and talk to me about it if she has any problems with the changes. Ok?"
Daryl nodded, slightly confused by her request. "Wait. Is someone pregnant?"
"Um, that could be a possibility." Deanna replied coyly. "But let us not get too carried away speculating who it is. Well, I'd love to stay and chat but I've got to check-in on my son." She smiled warmly at Carol and Daryl and left.
"So, what you think about having another baby around?" Daryl asked, trying to keep conversation going.
She frowned and replied wistfully. "How is this good news? We could lose another person and the baby. Whomever it is…they're being reckless."
"We won't. We're gonna go out and get the things that we need. We are gonna be prepared this time around. It won't be like Lori." He said, trying to remain optimistic.
"You can't say that. Even with all the equipment and medicine, it'll all be useless, unless we have a doctor."
"Thinking like that ain't gonna help no one. We've just gotta be prepared and hope for the best."
"Yeah, I guess." Carol shrugged, still certain that it was a terrible error of judgement on the new parents. There was nothing more to say on the subject and the conversation came to an uncomfortable end. Carol hummed to the faint music in the background as Daryl stood fidgeting with his hands.
"Do you wanna grab a burger with me?" Daryl said, finally cutting through the awkwardness.
Carol, looked up at him and smiled. "You asking me on a date?" She teased.
"Stop." Daryl couldn't help but smile. "So, you wanna go get some? I overheard Spencer saying that there is a bunch of 'em in the microwave."
"Are they even for the party?" Carol asked skeptically. "Cause if they were, they'd be out here for everyone."
"Who cares?! It's food. A slice of spam between two slices of bread. It won't be missed. You coming?"
"Yeah. But next time, you're going to have to put more effort into our dates. A picnic would be nice." She joked and linked her arm in his as they walked towards the kitchen.
He snickered to himself. "So, when you free? So I can start planning something."
Taken aback, Carol came to a halt and looked up at him puzzled. "Are you being serious?"
Daryl's mouth became dry as Carol's blue eyes expectantly looked up at him. "I, I." He swallowed hard and frantically tried to pull himself together. "Yes." He croaked.
Carol resumed their pace, but remained quiet as they continued on their way to the kitchen. Her heart was pounding so hard, that she could barely hear herself think. She had always left hints, or joked that they should date. But it never amounted to more than a smile or a dismissive remark. As they reached the threshold of the kitchen, she gently laced her hand in his. Looking down at her feet she began to speak. "Daryl. I'd love to go on a date with you, but..."
"Tobin?" Daryl asked, already knowing the answer.
"Yeah…"
"You don't have to say anything else. I'll be here, if and when you need me."
"I'll always need you Daryl Dixon." She looked up at him with a sad smile.
"Yeah. I know." He leaned in and kissed her forehead. "Excuse me, I've gotta...I'll be back." Daryl gently released her hand left her standing there motionless. He needed a drink and time away from Carol. Being so close and touching her had become unbearable. He knew, if he hadn't have left in that momement he would have stepped over a line that Carol was not ready to step over. She was with Tobin and Daryl knew he had to respect that.
"What do you mean you don't know any constellations?!" Tobin asked in disbelief as they stood at the drinks table.
"I just never was into the outdoors stuff. That was more Nikkita's thing - my sister. After the turn, I wish I had taken more of an interest in the things that she loved to do." Michonne began to pour whisky into four glasses as she reminisced of the many times her younger sister had begged her to go camping with her. Nikkita was the total opposite of her. She loved hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoorsy. In many ways, it was one of the many reasons why Michonne gravitated towards Daryl. They were so many similarities between Nikkita and Daryl, that it was uncanny. A small sad smile tugged at the corner of her lips as she wondered if her sister was still out there, somewhere.
The conversation lulled momentarily while Tobin leaned over to retrieve the glasses. He filled them up with ice and soda and placed them carefully on a tray. Glancing over at her, he noticed her sad smile. He thought for a while, then hastily devised a plan to cheer her up. "Well, I can change that. I'll teach ya a thing or two. Draco should be out tonight." He paused, looking back at Carol. "They look happy talking. I think we got some time to spare. C'mon, I'll show ya." He grabbed her wrist and guided her out the large french doors and onto the back porch. Michonne noticed the group of teenagers who huddled in the corner and gave them a small wave as Tobin led her down the steps. It was a clear crisp night. The moon covered the garden in rays of gold, as thousands of tiny fairy lights hung from the trees. Everything about the garden was magical. Abraham and Rosita slow danced under a tree in the near distance, as their barely audible banter filled the night air. Tobin and Michonne came to a stop in the middle of the garden and with their eye's cast to the heavens, Tobin took her hand in his and traced out Draco.
Michonne's eyes were filled with wonder. "Wow," she gasped. "Do you do this with Carol every night?"
"Sometimes." He admitted shyly.
"Well, I can see why Carol likes you. This is really romantic."
"Oh, that's good to know." He chuckled and made a mental note of Carol liking him.
"Do you know any others?" She asked eagerly.
Tobin smiled and reclaimed her hand once more and traced out other constellations. He shared several names and myths as Michonne became enthralled by everything he said. For the first time in a long time, she felt detached from her reality. It was a welcome feeling. A chance to forget about death, food, surviving...and Rick.
Rick watched from the porch as Michonne and Tobin walked to the center of the garden. They had not noticed him in the shadows behind a pillar as they hurried past. She seemed so comfortable in Tobin's presence, that it troubled him. As the pair talked, they moved closer and closer until they stood a little too close for Rick's liking. Now it seemed that every time he saw her, she was in the company of another man. He had never thought of Michonne as easy, but now he wondered how well he really knew her. Had she become a flirt? Or was she always like this? He thought to himself. Watching her smile at Tobin, cut him. He needed to talk to her and quickly. Mustering up courage, Rick descended the porch steps and walked directly towards Tobin and Michonne.
"Tobin could you please excuse us? I'd like to talk privately with Michonne." Rick said authoritatively.
Tobin didn't move. He felt the tension between the two and didn't think it would be wise to leave her side. "Will you be OK?" He asked Michonne, ignoring Rick's loud exasperated sigh. She nodded and smiled to reassure him. Tobin hesitated, his instincts told him to stay put.
"I'll be fine." Michonne finally voiced, noticing that Tobin would not move until she verbally assured him. She smiled from ear to ear and squeezed his forearm. "Thank you for tonight. It was really special. We've got to do it again."
"Sure. No problem. Anytime." With that, he bid them both a goodnight and left unwillingly.
Rick wasted no time and questioned Michonne. "So, Tobin huh? Should I let Carol know you're moving in on her man? Or Daryl? I never took you to be such a flirt."
"What do you want Rick?" Michonne said coldly as her smile disappeared.
"I just wanted to see how you were." He said matter-of-factly.
"Rick. Cut the bullshit. What do you really want?"
Rick saw no away around and decided to be blunt. "All this, with Daryl, Tobin or whoever. It has to stop."
"What?" She rolled her eyes at him.
"You heard me." He shot back quickly.
Michonne looked up to the sky and scoffed. "Enough. You're being ridiculous."
"I mean it Mich!" He raised his voice, determined to be taken seriously.
"What is wrong with you? Do you even see me as person Rick? A living, breathing person? Someone who has feelings and wants? Someone who's worth a damn?"
"You know I do." Rick said vehemently, angered that she would think otherwise.
"Then I don't need to justify anything to you. My relationships; romantic or not, don't have anything to do with you." In that moment, Michonne saw the pain in his eyes and realized Daryl was right. They should not have come to the party. It was too soon, even for her. She needed to leave before she said something she regretted. "Forget it." She uttered and quickly moved to leave.
Without thinking, Rick sprung forward and grabbed her arm forcefully. "Mich, listen to me! End it now!" He demanded.
Disgusted by his actions, she ripped her arm from his grip. "You don't have a say in anything I do. Who I sleep with or choose to flirt with. You don't own me Rick. What the fuck did I ever see in you?! I once thought of you as my best friend. I used to think I was in lov..." She stopped herself before finishing her sentence. Regret filled her as kicked herself internally. Terrified that she had exposed too much of feelings, she tried to make a beeline for the party once more.
Rick moved urgently to block her path. All his jealously and anger left him in that instance. "You're in love with me?" He asked softly, stepping a little closer.
"Get away from me!" Michonne said heatedly. She schooled her features, careful not to show any emotion.
"Mich, please." Rick pleaded with her. He watched her closely. Noting the slight lift of her chin and straight posture. She was putting up her guard and shutting him out. "Mich, talk to me." He urged.
"Let me get past." She pushed against his chest, but was unable to move him.
She was so close that Rick found it hard to concentrate. Subtle hints of vanilla from her hair wafted through the air and the moon light glistened against her ebony skin. He found the combination intoxicating and the urge to kiss her was overwhelming. Unable to hold himself in check any longer; he pulled her into his arms and kissed her passionately.
His lips were soft and warm against hers. Loosing herself in the moment, Michonne melted in his embrace. The smell of his cologne and his hard body pressed flush against her made her head spin. It was everything she hoped it would be - intense and electric. His hands slid down her bare back causing the hairs on her arms to stand on end. She savored every adrenaline fueled second of the kiss. Not wanting it to end. Rick moaned against her lips and broke Michonne out of his spell. Coming to her senses and she pushed him away. Breathless, they both stared at each other for a few seconds.
Rick did not bother to hide his disappointed. He moved to touch her face but stopped himself. Michonne glared at him. Her eyes held nothing but anger. "Mich, I'm sorry. I couldn't help myself. I'm sorry." He quickly apologized, hoping quell some of her anger towards him. Despite his apology, Rick knew it was only going to escalate.
Rage boiled over within her. She was mad at Rick and herself. Mad that she liked the kiss a little too much. Ashamed that she had allowed herself to give in to him. "I'm not your bitch!" Michonne snapped. "I'm not someone you can use or manipulate with a kiss! Someone you can control. Have you forgotten that you're with Jessie? She's probably walking around that party, right now, looking for you. Run back to her Rick. I refuse to be your dirty little secret."
Rick couldn't look at her. He knew that everything she said right. "Jesus Christ, Mich. Why do you have to checkmate me at every turn. How am I suppose to respond to that without sounding like an ass? What do you want me to say? That I want you and I don't want to be with Jessie? I can't, cause I don't know what I'm feeling right now. I'm lost...I don't know what doing. All I know is I can't be without you. I can't stop thinking bout you. I need you. Please." His voice dripped in desperation.
"Now you tell me that you want me and that you can't live without me and expect me to...to do what exactly?! What am I suppose to do with that? I can't make it right for you any more...you chose who you wanted to share your home with..your bed with...my sweet Judith and Carl with. You chose. What happened, was a mistake." She cowered away from Rick as he reached out for her hand. "I'm done fighting with you, and whatever this is." She paused as her voice wavered, showing the cracks in her armor. "I don't have it in me anymore. I'm just tired of this. You chose who you wanted, Rick. And I'm good with that."
"Mich..." Rick grabbed her waist before she could walk away. "I need you close, I need you by my side. I'm sorry. I...I lov-"
"Don't you dare!" She spat at him, cutting him short. Eyes furious and pooling with tears.
Rick felt nothing but remorse at the sight of her tears. His heart ached for her. He wanted to kiss her again, but decided against it. "Mich please, I lov.."
In one swift motion Michonne landed a thunderous slap across Rick face. He released her and hunched forward holding his jaw. Michonne sneered menacingly, "Don't you ever say that word to me! You don't know the meaning of love. You're selfish! Pathetic! Words like love, actually mean something to me. When you love someone, you put their needs above yours. Like with Carl. You don't even see what you're doing to him. That boy needs you. He's suffering. You chose being with Jessie over him." She took a few steps away before turning back to him. "Rick... Do me one favor, and stay the fuck away from me."
Rick watched Michonne's figure retreat back to the house. He looked around the garden and realized that he was not alone. Rosita and Abraham had seen and possibly heard everything. Rick groaned, and knew he would eventually have explain his behavior to them. He ran a hand through his hair and followed Michonne back to the party. He watched her hips sway as she walked ahead. Even when she wasn't trying, it felt as though she was teasing him. Out of no where Michonne broke into a sprint. Confused, Rick came to an halt. Enid's screams resound through the night, propelling Rick forward with Abraham and Rosita close behind.
-15min prior-
Carl walked through the party looking for Enid. He had spent most of the evening in the kitchen avoiding his father and Jessie; helping out wherever he could to keep himself busy. Now with nothing to do, he was in desperate need of a friendly face to escape from his emotional turmoil. Everyone at the party looked so happy. He stopped for a minute to take in the setting. People chatted blissfully, eating, drinking and making fools of themselves. One pair in particular caught his eye. Glenn and Maggie. They looked at each other with such love and devotion as they played with his little sister. Glenn playfully pinched and grabbed at Judith's chubby feet pretending to eat them as Maggie struggled to hold onto the flailing toddler. Judith squealed with delight each and every time Glenn lurched forward. The couple would pause every now and then to share an intimate gaze and smile. Carl smiled sadly and thought of Lori, and all the things she was missing out on. He hung his head and fought the tears that began to form. He quickly pushed the thought out of his mind and continued on his search. After several detours and unsolicited conversations about his father and Jessie, he finally found Enid. She was out on the back porch standing in the far corner; talking to Ron and Mickey. He walked over and slid in beside her. She turned to cheerfully greet Carl, but her smile faded as she took in his distraught appearance.
"You ok?" Enid asked with a frown.
"Yeah. Can we go somewhere to talk?" Carl replied in a low tone.
"Sure. But, are you sure you're OK?" She asked once more, not convinced he was telling her the truth.
"My mom...I mean Mich, moved out today." Embarrassed, he quickly corrected himself and smiled. "C'mon" He held her forearm and gestured with his head for them to leave.
Overhearing their conversation, Ron moved to stand in front of Carl. He looked at his peer with disgust. "She isn't you're mom. She's black!" he snickered derisively. "You're freaking delusional." He began to laughed hysterically as Mickey and Enid froze upon hearing his bitter response.
"C'mon man. Stop." Mickey said, placing a hand on Ron's shoulder, pulling him away from Carl.
Ron shoved Mickey a in the chest, causing him to stumble. "Why?!" He exclaimed, furious. "He's a damn looser!"
"Shut. Up." Carl said through gritted teeth. His eyes filled with rage.
"His 'mom' is screwing that red neck. Well, that's what my mom told me." Ron provoked.
"I said, shut up." It took everything in Carl, not to react. The last thing he wanted was to fight in front of Enid.
Moving further into Carl's personal space, Ron proceeded to taunt his counterpart. "You're real mom is dead. And you're black 'mom' doesn't even want to be around you." He smiled sadistically.
Carl rushed at Ron, pining him to the wall. The boys clumsily scuffled pushing each other into the outdoor furniture. Ron, an inexperience fighter, haphazardly threw punches into the air as Carl dodged them. Carl, on the other hand, made sure every punch he threw counted and connected with Ron's face.
"Stop!" Enid screamed repeatedly as she tried to pry the boys apart. But it was no use. Carl was hurt and pushed past his limit. All he could do was react. He was out for blood.
Hearing the Enid's screams, Michonne sprinted up the stairs. It took a second for her to register what was happening. She quickly instructed Enid and Mickey to back away and pulled Carl towards herself while simultaneously pushing Ron in the opposite direction.
Jessie emerged from the house just in time to see Ron stumbled and fall backward landing on his behind. She ran to cradle her son. Taking in his bloodied and bruised face, she became enraged. "Don't you ever touch my son!" she yelled at Michonne.
Confused, Michonne tried to explain. "You need to calm down, I was just trying to stop their fight."
Party guest poured out of the large french doors and onto the back porch. Drawn out, by Enid's screams. They looked on in shock as Rick, Abraham and Rosita finally made it up the stairs to stand by Michonne.
"You pushed and hurt him!" Jessie rose and screamed. She looked to Rick for support, but he remain quiet. His eyes fixed on Michonne and Carl.
"What?!" Michonne shook her head; becoming steadily aggravated by the other woman. "This was going to escalate. And if I hadn't stepped in, Carl would've seriously injured him. Possibly ended him."
Realizing that Michonne was getting blamed for his actions, Carl quickly walked forward and began to apologize. "Jessie, I'm sorry. I was wrong. Ron, I'm sor..."
Jessie walked briskly towards Carl and forcefully shoved him. "Stay out of this Carl!" Jessie yelled.
Michonne froze. She took in a deep breath and paused momentarily, choosing her words carefully. Her eyes went cold and her voice became low and threatening. She stepped out in front of Carl, and protectively nudged him behind her. "If you so much raise your voice in his direction again, I will come after you. You put your hands on my kid one more time, and I will end you. That's a promise."
Michonne's words sent a chill down Jessie's spine. She became very still. Stunned that Michonne would blatantly threaten her in front of everyone. "Rick, do something." She pleaded when no one stepped forward to help her.
Rick stood dumbfounded. All eyes were now upon him. He swallowed hard, not knowing what to do. He knew he had to chose a side. It was either Michonne or Jessie. "Jessie, I...I, I..." He stuttered, and frantically racked his brain for something to say.
As he stumbled on his words, Michonne saw it as her opportunity to usher Carl away. Carl pulled his arm roughly from her grasp. "Leave me alone!" He spat at her, his tone filled with agony.
"Carl." She uttered his name so lovingly, that he found it hard to look her.
"You're just as bad as him," Carl said as he angrily glanced at his father before looking back at her. "You didn't fight for us! You rolled over and accepted it! You just left us!" He yelled as his face contorted in pain and his eyes welled with tears. "You left me." His voice became unsteady, and his breathing became heavy. "You left me... I hate you." He uttered, as a tear rolled down his check. The loud chatter of the Alexandrians that gathered around them broke the intense moment; making Carl painfully aware of his surroundings. He took a few retreating steps away when he noticed Enid. Ashamed and defeated he ran down the porch steps and into the darkness.
"Carl!" Michonne cried out and tried to pursue him but was gently stopped by Daryl who was suddenly by her side.
"No. Stay. I'll go." He said softly while gently squeezing her hand.
She nodded and fought back tears of her own. "Thank you." She whispered. Daryl gave her a sad smile and quickly ran after the teenager.
Rick attempted to place his hand on Michonne's shoulder to comfort her, but she evaded his touch. "Don't." She said without looking at him. She kicked her heels off, picked them up and walked down the steps.
Rick watched her walk away from him for the second time that night. He wanted to follow after both Carl and Michonne. But figured he was better off tending to Ron and Jessie.