A/N~~*** I am so sorry this took forever to get completed. Life just kept getting in the way, making it hard to be in the lovey place I needed to be in to make this final chapter happen. But alas its done. And you all know fluff and romance is a challenge for me so hopefully you all enjoy this. I was truly stressing about it lol

I didn't think when I set out to write this story based off Arlene's Rick Grimes edit that it would become my longest single story yet lol. Wow! But, there will be an epilogue! It's halfway done so that should be up soon since I'm back in it now. I am still working on those other stories I promised as well, I just needed to focus on writing just one or two at a time as to not overwhelm myself. But I promise to never leave a story incomplete.

But as always, I'm grateful for all of you! Thank you for reading all my work over the last year. Writing reviews, sharing and coming back for more. Until then we will Keep Richonne Alive!

XIV

A filling supper of ribeye steak, garlicy mashed potatoes and savory green beans had been eaten. The leftovers were put in storage containers and placed in the fridge for tomorrows lunch. Now, father and son were in the end stages of cleaning up any mess that was created in the kitchen. Rick informed Carl that they wouldn't be selling the lodge before they prepared dinner together. He told him that he'd get to own the lodge himself one day when he was older, if everything went according to plan. But only if it was something he wanted as an adult, no pressure.

The excitement that his son displayed helped brighten his mood as he rambunctiously chatted about it all through their dinner and now the cleanup too. Rick had wondered what his son's response would be once he delivered the news. The prospects of moving somewhere new could be scary to a child but Carl appeared to have taken that possibility in stride. So changing plans so abruptly and sticking around in Colorado could have given the kid whiplash.

"This is so cool dad. I was going to miss Sophia and the kids at school if we moved. But we get to stay here in Colorado with all our friends."

"I would have missed our friends too."

"And Uncle Shane won't have to worry about more people that don't turn off the lights. Because I forget some times." Carl unapologetically shrugged making his father snicker in total agreement.

It reminded Rick that he needed to call his old friend and let him know they wouldn't be moving to Georgia after all. He'd thank him for offering up his home as well as putting himself out on the line to try and get him back in the police department. But honestly going back to the force after switching gears would have been a challenging transition after all these years as a civilian.

"I'll need to start learning more, like how do you even run a lodge?" Carl interrupted his musings.

Rick chuckled at the boy's inquisitive excitement as he handed him plates and utensils to be rinsed and loaded in the dishwasher. "We can learn together, everything I know already I'll teach you when the time comes."

"Okay. I won't let you down, Dad."

Rick smiled proudly but it was evident that his son was mulling something over in his head so he waited patiently. "New York would have been fun also. But we can make it just as fun here too, I bet."

Carl smiled at him happily so he didn't flinch at the mention of that city. The city where he'd left his heart. Instead, he took a deep breath and stayed in this moment.

"You're right, we can." he tousled Carl's hair after drying his hands on a dish towel and set the machine to begin the load of dirty dishes.

Rick decided that no matter what happened, he would keep his spirits up. His son deserved to have a father that wasn't brooding and miserable all the time. His own wellbeing directly affected his son's outlook on life. More than anything else he wanted Carl to be happy.

Rick looked at his watch, it was nearly nine pm. He really should be putting the boy to bed but he had an idea.

"It's been a while, I'm gonna go check the horses."

"Can I go with you?" Carl asked with hope in his blue eyes.

Rick smirked. "Well, how else you gonna learn?"

Carl ran to slip on his boots and jacket then bounced with excitement while he waited for his father to do the same. They started to walk out but Carl abruptly ran back to the living room grabbing his father's old sheriffs' hat, placing it on his head. Rick was astonished by the decision but just smiled before they walked out of their place. They headed towards the side exit that staff used so they could cut across the field to the barn more easily.

"I think this weekend we should have a huge party with all the staff to celebrate, what do you think?"

"Yes! With balloons, games and music. Carol can bake all the cakes and cookies."

"I think we'll need some food and drinks too?" Rick smirked.

"Maybe, but I just want chocolate cake."

"Just chocolate cake, huh?" Carl nodded happily while rubbing his belly.

"Okay, I'll ask Carol." Rick chuckled then pulled his cellphone out, ready to text her as they took a few steps out the door.

The glare of headlights suddenly illuminating the path to the main entrance making a portion of the night's limited insect population swarm to it. As far as Rick knew they didn't have any guests that would be checking in so late this evening. A visible trail of floodlit dust particles led the way as he and Carl changed their course after looking perplexedly at each other.

Rick wondered if it was Dale, Tammy Rose or Carol coming back to convince him to join them for the night's festivities. But as he turned the corner, he saw that it was in fact a cab. The driver was concealed at the back with the trunk open, presumably helping the passenger who was also hidden remove their luggage.

"Welcome to the Callies Lodge!" Carl announced taking initiative, just before the driver slammed the trunk closed, revealing himself and the mystery guest.

Rick skidded to a stop, his mind fighting to determine if this was some sort of mirage. He wondered if he'd finally lost his mind completely and he was seeing things, people.

"Michonne!" Carl ran to her, kicking up dirt behind him.

Rick's heart sped, his hands trembled and he wanted to continue forward the way his son had done but he was in a bit of shock. Not knowing what to truly think, he was stuck in place. Their eyes were fleetingly locked in a dance of longing and fraught, only to be broken when Carl made contact with her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and she tipped his hat back so she could clearly see his cherub face under its large brim while warmly smiling down at him.

When she looked down to acknowledge his son, Rick slightly pivoted to watch the cab driver wave goodbye before climbing inside his vehicle. The car turned back up the gravel road to depart, leaving him in the dim shadow of the lodges lighting. A fitting metaphor since he was literally in the dark as to what was happening.

Was this actually happening? She was really here. Was it to convince him that long distance would work? Or was she angry at his hasty departure?

Michonne was in a state of shock as well. She'd been nervous the entire flight and subsequent cab ride from Grand Junction Regional airport. She went over what she'd say once she arrived but kept scraping it only to start all over. She had convinced herself that she'd have a bit more time to ready herself because surely Rick would be in his home. No doubt getting Carl ready for bed at this late hour, after all he did have school in the morning.

During the drive over, she assumed either Tammy Rose or Barbara would be working the front desk. She'd somehow convince whomever it was to check her in without notifying Rick so she could gather her thoughts first. Maybe she'd even sleep on it and find Rick in the morning, but she knew that was not realistic. She'd never be able to shut her mind off, tossing and turning would win out and she'd inevitably go in search of him.

But her hazy designs were clearly scratched.

She didn't except the Grimes men would magically appear from the side of the lodge to witness her unscheduled arrival.

In that instance of brief eye contact, she thought but really hoped that her and Rick's expressions mirrored one another's. Yearning to be closer but petrified of the unknown response from the other. Then uncertainty crept in. Had she broken his heart too deeply with her reluctance? Would he reject her, sending her back to what would undoubtedly be a melancholy existence back in New York?

But luckily, a warmth she hadn't realized she'd needed had sped towards her. Carl giving her a cheerful welcome had her swiftly kneeling to embrace him properly. She was so happy he was excited to see her, returning her feelings for him.

"Michonne, are you here to celebrate with us? Wait! Did my dad tell you we aren't selling the lodge anymore? I'll be the owner someday, if I want to." he nobly announced.

"I'm so happy for you Carl. For you both." she quickly glanced at Rick who still looked to be astonished by her presence, his balance wavering between each leg.

"And I love the hat."

"It was my Dad's." he pushed it down more securely on his head even though it was too large as it stood.

"I want to be a great leader like him one day so I figured it would be a good way to start." he looked uncertain until Michonne smiled reassuringly.

"I think that is an excellent idea."

"Really?" his freckled cheeks glowed.

"Yeah."

"Dad!" Carl turned and enthusiastically waved his father over, making Michonne stand back up somewhat awkwardly.

A message kept replaying in Rick's mind, Michonne was really here. She was here in Colorado. She had a large suitcase and a weekend bag sitting near her combat boot clad feet. She looked wary but just as beautiful as ever in her tight denim jeans and golden anorak jacket. The angles of her face catching the light from the lit up porch making him marvel at the way the harsh lighting could make her pretty dark skin glow as though she was enchanted. A spell that had his feet suddenly taking over and he slowly walked towards her and his son.

Michonne's heartbeat sounded loudly in her ears as Rick finally began to approach her. His footsteps were measured but that damned bowlegged walk had her mesmerized. His wayward curls were making her fingertips tingle to push them back in place. He looked right, here in Colorado. The way she always thought. The white t-shirt under a fur collared brown suede jacket and distressed black jeans with his trusty boots completed the look. If how he made her feel wasn't enough to make this uncertain journey worth it, the sight of him looking this damn good sure did.

She just hoped it wasn't for the last time.

Once Rick stood a few paces from her, Carl looked between their faces numerous times. He had to be wondering what was going on. Maybe he was quick enough to attempt at picking up the silent conversation the pair were having, but Rick doubted it because even he was uncertain.

"Carl, could you give us a minute?"

The boy examined their faces for more clues before he eventually nodded in the affirmative. "Can I still go see if Aaron needs any help with the horses?"

"Yeah."

Rick and Michonne watched him look back a couple times as he sauntered off to the stables. They could see the ranch hand tidying up before he left for the night and he happily greeted Carl then took him inside.

"I-"

"I-" they both attempted to speak before even turning back to face one another.

"You can go first." Rick's fingers tapped at his leg anxiously. "You did come all this way."

Michonne nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. "I was going to call but I wasn't sure what you would say or if you'd even answer. And I already purchased my plane ticket so I figured I'd just wait until I saw you."

Rick's chest ached at the thought that she considered he wouldn't accept her calls. But then he thought about his earlier attempt at contacting her after his conversation with Dale. The immediate send to voicemail now explained and his heart softened. She hadn't blocked him or dodged his call, she was coming here to see him. Even though he told her she could go first, he now felt like he should explain himself.

"I tried text messaging you when I got on the plane, but they wouldn't go through on the shotty Wi-Fi." he looked to the ground despondently. "I want you to know that I wouldn't have just left without saying anything to you-"

"I know what Negan did." he looked back to her face. "Changing your return flight. He bragged about it at the meeting."

"The meeting?" Rick's look of concern made Michonne's heart flutter. He still cared of course but to see it gave her hope.

"I figured it would've been canceled once I told him I wasn't taking the deal. How…how did things go?" he hesitated gesturing with his hand.

Michonne exhaled deeply. "It's a long story that involved the FBI and arrests…but I quit before all of that even occurred."

A new level of surprise was clearly written on Rick's face as he was likely running scenarios in his mind as he chewed his lip. But Michonne knew he would remember her telling him something big was afoot with the financials at Barrington House. Hopefully, she'd get a chance to explain all of that dirty work later since he wouldn't be able to figure out all the details on his own. But she hoped it was enough for them to move forward with this conversation regarding where they'd left off.

He nodded after a moment. "I'm happy you are free."

A hint of a smile graced her lips before the nervous look reappeared. Then she remembered the news Rick shared with her after his coffee run and Carl's confirmation just a couple minutes ago.

"So you took the deal with the mystery investor?"

Rick half smirked. "Turns out it was Dale."

"Dale?" Michonne was happily dazed by that development.

"I had to tell him what brand our mattresses were to seal the deal." the pair softly chuckled.

Rick could feel himself getting pulled under again by the proximity to this irresistible woman. The ease of their conversation had him wanting to venture deeper but he needed to focus and when he did the silence returned. The atmosphere had become thick again with things unsaid now that the seemingly minor details were out of the way.

Rick chewed his lip again before he took a small step forward. "I'm sorry."

"You don't have to be." Michonne sighed and he saw the sincerity reflected in her glossy brown eyes.

Rick cast his eyes down. "Yes, yes I do. I should've given you more time. You could've used a little more time."

"Rick-"

In an attempt to not be interrupted, he rushed out his words. "It wasn't fair of me to spring that all on you and just expect-"

"I love you too."

Rick looked up to lock eyes with Michonne, his heart pounded wildly. His whole being wanted to swoop her into his arms but he resisted, needing a question answered. "You…you heard me?"

A tear dropped from her eye landing on her cheek and Rick wanted to step forward and wipe it away but he held back waiting for her reply. The word too, ringing in his ears.

"I did."

Michonne motioned to his left hand and he gradually looked down at it also. "I saw your ring was off also. Not at first, but I didn't know what it meant. If you simply forgot it at home. If it was just because I was your girlfriend or if-"

"If I finally saw a reason to remove it." he completed her sentence. His statement from when they went horseback riding, which felt like so long ago. "You were the reason."

Michonne took a shaky breath and exhaled as smoothly as her trembling lips allowed. "On my last day here in Colorado, I felt like you were nearly ready to wager it all on us. And I thought it was too soon to feel that way. I never really opened myself up to consider that this could be out there for me. Because most of my life, I had to chart my own course. It always led me to success so I thought I had to go my way."

She dashed the tears from her eyes. "But whenever I'm with you, I realize I don't want it to be my way. I want it to be ours. Me and you. And that scared the hell out of me."

Rick's eyes became glassy and his chest pounded as she stepped closer still, her eyes locked on his relaying a message.

"When you came to New York, you asked me to stay..." he deliberately nodded motivating her to continue.

"I want to stay with you here in Colorado…if you still want me."

Rick exhaled and relief washed over his body. She had finally let her walls down and admitted what he knew was true, that she desired him as much as he coveted her. He took a final step forward so his body was flush with hers before he gently placed his hands on her cheeks. Their eyes were locked for a few quiet moments before he pulled her lips close to his so they barely skimmed.

"Chonne, you are the reason. I'll always want you."

That was all she needed to hear before the minuscule distance was no longer between them. Plump lips joined together until their soft kiss grew more passionate when she tiptoed to weave her fingers into his curls. Rick's arms slid to Michonne's back, hugging her so tightly that he picked her up, her feet no longer touching the ground.

In response, she wrapped her arms around his neck, craving to make up for the missed connection of the last day. It felt like weeks or maybe even months when they weren't together but in reality it had only been a little more than a day. Now, that they were reunited Michonne knew she couldn't endure that separation again and she reluctantly pulled back for a confession.

"I can't lose you." she whispered through her fresh tears.

"You won't." Rick's eyes welled up but he smiled. "I found what I was looking for."

"I love you."

"I love you too."

He placed her back on the ground and her fingers increasingly massaged his scalp as she pulled him back to her. Their lip lock was hungry until Rick lifted her again, spinning them in a circle that made her squeal. He beamed joyously, delighted that he would get to inspire that jubilance from her once again.

"Whoa. Why are you two crying?"

Carl skidded to a stop in the gravel making them chuckle at his stealthy approach. Rick put Michonne back on her two feet but still kept his body pressed against hers when he turned his head to his boy.

"Happy tears son, happy tears. Michonne's here to stay."

"No way?! Yes!" Carl's hat flew off as he ran, nearly toppling them and they laughed harder before they wrapped him in their embrace. For a split second, Rick thought they should've sat Carl down and had a mature discussion about the nature of their relationship but from his son's response it seemed none was needed at this time.

A gratefully relieved Rick wiped Michonne's tearstained cheeks before she kneeled down in front of Carl. "Is it okay that I'm moving in with you and your Dad?" Nervousness colored her face as she braced for his reply.

He grinned before answering in the most unaffected way. "It's cool." It seemed Carl had been very perceptive with what was occurring between the couple even when they were unsure and it made the adults snicker.

"I've never lived with two men before."

Carl's eyes rolled upwards as he considered. "I don't really remember what it was like living with my mom but I lived with my grandma for a little while."

Rick looked to Michonne who was grinning and he laughed before turning back to his son. "This, this is different."

"Okay, but don't tell Sophia…" he leaned into Michonne and whispered even though no one was around. "I think you might become my new best friend."

Michonne's eyes shined with another bout of unexpected tears before she smiled then hurriedly pulled Carl into a tight embrace. "I think you are already my best friend. Just don't tell Andrea." they all chuckled as Rick quickly wiped his own eyes still taken by their swift connection.

"I'm happy you are here to stay Michonne."

"I'm glad too." her heart warmed as his freckled cheeks glowed when he glanced at his father.

"I know my dad is too."

Rick blushed but he nodded in total agreement. "I am."

Carl extracted himself from them to grab Michonne's rolling suitcase. "Now, you get to use the special entrance and see our place."

Rick and Michonne quickly smirked at one another before he went to pick up her duffle bag. With some difficulty, Carl rolled her luggage through the unpaved ground pausing until Michonne joined him, so they could walk together.

"That will be cool and you can show me all you know already about how everything works here. Then one day, I'll help you learn how to run this place. Along with your dad of course." Rick followed them to the side door watching Carl pivot to Michonne, a bit surprised.

"You'll help me?"

Michonne nodded. "Oh yeah, this is your show."

Carl snickered skeptically.

"Okay, you'll see." she grinned before the boy stopped abruptly, touching his head.

"My hat!" Carl let her suitcase handle go so that it teetered before remaining upright. He scurried off in search of his lost item while Rick and Michonne giggled.

"And what will I be doing when he's running the lodge?" Rick's eyes shined with mischievousness after he salaciously glanced at her form.

Michonne sauntered to him, pressing her body to his making him inhale deeply. The heat was rapidly rising between them, no doubt casting a haze above their heads in the cool night air. She ran a hand down his chest then looked him seductively in his eyes. "Oh, I'm sure you can think of something."

Rick used his free hand to tug at her waist before leaning so his lips just about brushed her ear. "Stuff. Thangs."

He enjoyed the feel of Michonne's body shuttering from his whispers. He drew back to examine the hungry look on her face before she nipped at his full bottom lip making his eyes clamp shut as a groan from the welcomed sensation shot through him. But the groan was doing double duty, it was also a countdown to the amount of time he'd have to wait to really get his hands on her. Tonight would be a knock down drag out fight to get his wired son down to sleep. He couldn't blame him this was a lot of excitement in one day, even for him. But it just prolonged what he and Michonne clearly longed for.

Right on cue Carl returned with his old Sheriff's hat back on, grabbing the suitcase before again attempting to lead them inside. "Come on guys."

The couple snickered at the missed opportunities that having a child would present to their sex life. They knew it would be a frustrating yet comical part of their future together. But Michonne couldn't help but to steal a quick kiss before stepping back leaving Rick wanting more. Then she jumped back into the prior conversation so smoothly Rick was confused for a second.

"Until then you have to bring in a profit since you do still owe me a new pair of leggings." they both laughed as they followed Carl inside.

Rick was enjoying this elated feeling, following his son and girlfriend to their home together. When Michonne turned back to grasp his hand interweaving their fingers, neither of them could wipe the silly grins off their faces before they approached the homes front door. Michonne couldn't help but to look down at the mat and remember the first time she entered, being carried chivalrously by Rick.

"I have to run to the bathroom but, welcome home!" she snickered hearing Carl's words before he dashed inside, her suitcase gliding with ease down the hall.

Michonne attempted to take a step forward but the grasp Rick had on her hand kept her in place. He maneuvered to place her duffle bag just inside the door to the left then turned back to her curious expression. He swiftly scooped her up in his arms making her cover her mouth giggling with surprise.

"What…I can walk this time?"

"I know. You could walk then too." he chuckled. "But I want to."

Michonne couldn't resist pushing a wayward curl back behind his ear. "Just so you know, you are supposed to carry your bride across the threshold. Not your live-in girlfriend."

"Then marry me."

The words were out of his mouth so quickly that Michonne simpered at what she assumed was a statement made in jest until Rick's imploring eyes had her searching each one individually. "Rick…"

He'd said it so matter of factly but he meant it with every fiber of his being. Now knowing that all the questions of whether they'd work out had vanished leaving only heavenly thoughts of the days to come. This was what he wanted and he was ready to plead his case and a cocky yet nervy grin spread across his face.

"Even if you say no for now, because I'm not doing it the right way. I'll just ask you again with all the bells and whistles. Rose petals, candles, champagne, chocolates and a ring. Just the two of us or in front of our friends and family. Down on one knee. Whatever you'd want, but I will ask again."

Michonne didn't fight the smile from exposing her sparkly white teeth. "All of that does sound amazing, but you don't have to ask again. I'll marry you Rick."

A satisfactory smile was plastered on his face as she pulled his lips to hers. They wanted to engage in a passionate kiss but they couldn't keep their cheekbones from being at their full height. Rick pressed her tighter to his body when she wrapped her arms around his neck as the pecked in between giggles of happiness.

"I think there should be a clause added to tradition that says you should carry your future bride over the threshold. You know for modern times." Rick joked making Michonne laugh.

"I think you're right. I will draw up the papers for a charter."

"Charter, not constitution?"

"Charter."

Rick tickled her side making her squirm and laugh in his arms. "Okay, let's get the future Mrs. Grimes inside her home."

Michonne's heart blossomed and her core constricted from hearing those simple words come from his mouth. She caressed his cheek after a slow passionate set of kisses. "I can't wait to be welcomed home by you later in bed, Mr. Grimes."

A low rumble escaped Rick's throat and he took a step inside after pivoting as to not allow Michonne's body to make contact with any hard surface of the doorframe. "I can't wait for it either."

He kicked the door closed as she coquettishly giggled then pulled his lips to hers.