In Another Lifetime (Chapter 16)
A/N: Thank you all so much for the continued support. I truly appreciate you.
Previously: Herschel and Father Gabriel care for Rick at the prison; Tyreese finds Michonne and Sasha at the site of the attack; the Grimes family is reunited only Rick has no idea his family is with him.
XXXXXXXXXX
Sasha looks around the prison yard with an appreciative eye. Glenn, Maggie, and the others have made this into somewhat of a safe haven. They've placed thick wooden boards over some of the weaker spots in the fences and someone is on guard in the tower at all times. They've started planting seeds in order to grow their own fruits and vegetables as what is found on runs is either depleted or quickly rotting. Basically, they are doing some of the same things they've incorporated at Woodbury.
"How long have you guys been here?" Sasha asks Maggie.
"We were out there for almost two weeks when we came across the prison," Maggie explains. "We met Daryl along the way. He was holed up in this rundown shack. He'd lost his brother."
Glenn continues, "The yard was full of walkers so we just made our way into the fenced area. It seemed to be safe. The walkers couldn't get to us but we couldn't sleep with all that groaning and the rattling of the fences. Herschel just picked one off through the fence one night and we fell in with him."
"I was with Heath, Aaron, and T-Dog," Jacqui states. "We got out with a small church group but all of us didn't make it. Our bus ran out of gas and we were too far out to even hope of finding a station anywhere so we just started walking. We made it to the prison and they let us in."
Sasha listens attentively, amazed at the amount of trust Maggie, Glenn, and Herschel exhibited even after their experience at Woodbury. Finding people you could trust seems to get harder and harder as the world continues to deteriorate.
Glenn sighs. "I still don't know how we did it but we cleared that yard and eventually made our way inside. Tara was a prison guard here. She and 5 prisoners were still alive, waiting for help. Oscar stayed but the other prisoners decided to take a chance out there. We'll probably never know what happened to them."
"All things considered, I think you've done well," Sasha praises. "Woodbury got worse because of him but it's better now. I envy Rick and Michonne for the bravery they had in fighting back."
"Yeah the Governor was getting crazier each day but he chose the wrong woman this time," Tyreese inputs.
"So how did they end up in Woodbury?" Maggie asks.
"The Governor found them and brought them back. Of course we couldn't warn them about the things that had happened, the things we had to do. They soon learned the truth about him and well….Michonne chose not to be his victim," Tyreese affirms.
"I like her already," Maggie says. "I'll have to thank her."
"You better not let Herschel hear you say that," Glenn warns.
Maggie sighs. "Daddy has had time to work out his resentment and find forgiveness. I haven't. I don't think I ever will."
Jacqui looks around as a heavy silence falls over them. Herschel relayed to her what happened to his youngest daughter at Woodbury but Maggie never speaks on it. Neither does Glenn.
Sasha clears her throat and says, "Maggie…..I'm so sorry about Beth. I wish…"
"Don't, Sasha," Maggie interrupts. "I know you were in a bad spot. We all were but I only hold two people responsible for what happened to my sister. I just….it's still hard to talk about so it's best if we…..don't."
Sasha nods with understanding but she can't help wishing there was some way she could turn back the hands of time.
Glenn motions for Tyreese to join him and the two of them step away for a more private conversation. The former had to ensure that this group who attacked them wasn't a threat to his group as well.
XXXXXXXXXX
"The bad guys came to Woodbury. They were trying to get in but me and Carl stopped them. Mom too," Andre relays to Rick as he continues to hold his hand.
"Yeah she took care of them just like you would've, Dad," Carl adds.
"I've never been so scared in all my life but I kept asking myself what would you do and I made it work," Michonne tells her pretend husband, the pounding in her chest at just the sight of him a clear indication of her abounding love. "And your sons…..they were fearless. You've taught them well."
They had sat in silence for several minutes, watching Rick, wishing that he'd wake up until Andre seemed unable to continue being quiet. He started talking to Rick, telling him of their ordeal so Michonne and Carl joined in, hoping he'd hear them.
"I'm glad you got somewhere safe. Those guys tried to tell us you were dead but I knew better," Andre explains. The little one's gasp is mimicked by his older brother's when they both feel pressure from their dad's hands.
Rick squeezes their fingers weakly and groans as he blinks several times before finally opening his eyes.
"Dad?" Carl calls while Andre simultaneously utters, "Rick?"
Michonne smooths his hair back and looks down on him with tears welling in her eyes. "Hi."
Rick blinks again, clearing his vision. He stares at Michonne and whispers, "You're here? How?"
"Tyreese. He found you and then came for us," she answers.
"Except we were already on our way looking for you. Mom was gonna find you no matter what," Andre relays with a small smile.
Rick looks to the boy he has come to love as a son and returns his smile. "I'm glad you came but you shouldn't have risked it."
"We had to, Dad. We knew you needed us," Carl asserts.
"Nothing could've stopped me…..us," Michonne states. "We need you just like you need us."
The love is shining so clearly in her eyes that Rick looks away but only for a moment. He returns his gaze to hers, his heart feeling fuller than he ever imagined it could feel. He never knew it was possible to love someone as much as he loves her.
Before he can utter another word, Andre is stepping closer and carefully leaning in to give him a hug. Rick clears his throat to rein in his emotions as he wraps one arm around Andre and pulls Carl towards him with the other despite the pain the movements cause. Michonne places a hand on both boys then leans forward to kiss Andre's head, then Carl's and finally places a soft kiss on Rick's lips.
"Did I hear one of you say something about some bad guys?" Rick wonders.
Andre lifts up with an excited expression. "So you did hear us? I knew it. Those guys who shot you came to Woodbury and tried to take over but we showed them."
Rick looks to Michonne with concern.
She reassures him quickly. "We handled it. Patricia and Bob were with them. They orchestrated the entire thing."
Rick closes his eyes to stifle his anger for being foolish enough to allow Patricia and Bob to live. He knew they could be a possible threat but he never imagined they'd find allies, people who were capable of threatening their way of life. "Are you sure everythang's ok?"
As Michonne nods, he gently pulls his arms away from the boys and attempts to sit up.
"Wait. What are you doing?" Michonne wonders as she places a hand on his chest.
"We need to get back. I need to make sure….." Rick tapers off as Michonne interrupts.
"Woodbury is fine. I promise you. I need you to lie here and heal. We need you strong," she tells him.
"I'll be fine," he answers.
"I know…..because you're going to do exactly what Mr. Herschel tells you. We should probably get him in here since you're awake," Michonne states. She gently pushes Rick back onto the bed. "I'll be right back.
She looks to the boys. "You know what to do."
Carl and Andre look to their dad as Carl says, "We got him."
Only moments later, they are across the room, waiting quietly as Herschel examines his patient, checking his wound and trying to be as gentle as possible. Glenn stands in the doorway, waiting to speak with Rick now that he is awake.
"Everything looks fine but you're still slightly feverish. I think the worst is over but you should rest for another day. A bullet wound is serious business and well….this isn't a hospital and I'm not exactly a physician," Herschel informs.
Michonne lifts to a straighter stance and asks, "Not a physician? Ok. A nurse then?"
"I'm a vet, ma'am. As in a veterinarian," Herschel offers.
"Oh….." Michonne lingers as she ponders that information.
"Don't let him fool you. He's very good at what he does and he's treated all kinds of injuries," Glenn extends. "We have a couple of klutzes in our group," he adds sheepishly.
"I assure you that a lot of medicines and procedures administered and performed on animals are identical to the ones administered and performed on humans. I will admit that I've never treated a bullet wound before but I was able to help your husband," Herschel explains.
"Thank you," Michonne returns just as Rick does the same.
Andre looks up at Herschel with a pensive expression. "So you're a doctor for animals?"
"Why yes I am, young man," Herschel answers, delighted to satisfy the little one's curiosity.
Glenn steps further into the room. "I'm Glenn Rhee, Herschel's my father in law. I just wanted to stop by and introduce myself and to let you know that you and your people are welcome to stay as long as you need."
"Thank you. I appreciate that," Rick returns. "So you run this place?"
"We all do."
Herschel scoffs. "Now who's being modest? My son has turned out to be a fine leader."
The conversation continues smoothly until Tyreese, Sasha, Noah, and Mannie arrive. Herschel allows them inside to visit with Rick for a short time. The Woodbury residents and established friends convey their relief at knowing Rick would be ok and Tyreese relays the connection between Woodbury and the prison group. Rick is dismayed but he is assured that things are well under control and old animosities are forgotten due to the fact that the Governor is no longer alive to wreak havoc.
That night, Tyreese and the others are allowed to dine with the prison group while Father Gabriel supplies plates of food for the Grimes family. He accepts their thanks and lingers for just a moment, wanting to ask several questions but deciding not to be intrusive. The family is so ensconced with each other they barely notice when he quietly steps out of the room.
"We'll see how you're feeling tomorrow and maybe we can travel back to Woodbury then. How's that?" Michonne asks Rick as she adjusts some of his pillows and uses the mobile dinner tray to set up his plate. She winces with him as he moves around to get more comfortable to eat his food.
"Does it hurt really bad Dad?" Carl asks with concern.
"I'm just a bit tender is all," Rick answers.
Andre watches Rick closely and conveys, "That bullet could've killed you. I'm glad you didn't die Rick."
Rick is amazed at the matter of fact sentiment from one so young and laughs but groans as the stomach contraction causes him a bit of pain. "I'm glad too, son."
Father Gabriel returns with Tara and they are carrying linens, blankets, and pillows.
"You're welcome in our cellblock for the night but Rick has to remain here," Father Gabriel informs Michonne.
Tara steps forward. "We brought some blankets and stuff for you."
Michonne accepts the linens. "Thank you. That's very kind. We'd like to sleep here if that's ok."
"That's fine. We understand. We have room for Tyreese and the others although Sasha and Mannie have offered to help keep watch tonight," Tara states. "We appreciate the help."
"We appreciate you and everything you've done to help us. We can never thank you enough so please….if there is anything you need don't hesitate to ask," Michonne offers.
Farewell gestures are made and the Grimes family is left alone once again. Rick watches calmly as Michonne moves a few infirmary cots and spreads out the linens and blankets, assuring comfort for her and the boys as best as she is able. She walks over to him, intent to wish him a good night when he lifts the sheet and moves his body over amidst a couple of grunts, motioning for her to join him.
She shakes her head with a smile. "No. The bed is too small and you need your rest."
He allows the sheet to drop back into place followed by a deep sigh. "I missed you."
She grabs his hand with a squeeze. "I missed you too." She leans toward him and places a tender kiss on his lips. "I love you."
"I love you too."
"Good night."
"Good night." He watches her walk only a few feet away to the cot she would occupy for the night. A single candle is left burning as they all try to get some sleep.
XXXXXXXXXX
Father Gabriel walks into the room and smiles at the family. He notices the empty plates, relieved to know the breakfast was satisfactory. "I take it you are feeling better." He addresses Rick who is sitting up on the bed and shrugging on a shirt with Michonne's assistance.
"Much better. Thank you….for everythang," Rick acknowledges.
"Oh Herschel is the healer here. I simply prayed for you," Father Gabriel offers.
Rick nods. "Well I'm sure whatever you did helped so thank you."
"You're welcome. Will you and your family stay another night?"
"We should probably be getting back," Rick starts but then thinks better of it and turns to Michonne. "Would you mind if we stay on a bit?"
Michonne is curious about Rick's decision but doesn't object. "That's fine."
Father Gabriel smiles brightly. "Wonderful. I'll inform the others. They'll be happy to hear it." He starts for the exit but Rick detains him.
"So you're a real priest? Ordained and all that?"
"Um….yes. Yes I am. I went to seminary in Augusta and graduated after only 3 years there. I had a church right outside of Atlanta but…well I'm sure you know what happened." Gabriel stops before he can tell them more, afraid of what they'd think if they knew his truth.
"Do you….perform wedding ceremonies?" Rick asks right before grabbing Michonne's hand with a squeeze. She turns her eyes to him but keeps quiet as they both await Gabriel's answer.
Gabriel looks between the two then frowns and wonders, "Aren't you already married?" Before they can answer, he supplies an answer for them, "Ah….a renewal of your vows? How wonderful! I'd be honored to perform the ceremony."
Carl and Andre look to each other with excited glances then turn their attention to their parents.
"We're gonna have a wedding?!" Andre asks enthusiastically.
"It looks that way," Father Gabriel answers. "Let me tell the others. Everyone's going to be so excited." He exits the room with a promise to return later.
Michonne turns to the man at her side and prompts, "Rick?"
"We discussed this remember? It's all I can think about and I even got us some rings." He reaches into the front pocket of his jeans, relieved that the rings are still there and pulls them out to display. "I found these while we were out on the run. I know it's not much but…."
"They're beautiful," Michonne relays.
Andre steps closer. "So this means you'll be married for real and Rick will really be my dad?"
"That's exactly what it means," Rick assures.
"Are you ok with that?" Michonne asks.
Andre looks down at his feet, shyly. "I….I miss my dad but I know he's in heaven now. He's….he's still my dad but….I want Rick to be my dad here on earth."
Rick takes a deep breath and places a hand on Andre's shoulder. "I am your dad and don't you forget it."
Michonne tries not to but she looks at Carl expectantly and he surprises her by racing towards her and wrapping his arms around her waist. It was all the answer she needed. She smiles as she envelopes him in a tight embrace and kisses his head with affection.
Rick looks on, wondering at the miracle of it all. How could they find such happiness in a world like this? He concludes not to question it, to just appreciate it.
An hour later, he and Michonne stood before Father Gabriel in the prison's cafeteria with Carl and Andre by their sides. Tyreese, Sasha, Noah, Mannie, Herschel, Maggie, Glenn, Tara, T-Dog, Jacqui, Heath, and Aaron joined them while Daryl and Oscar handled watch duty.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union between Richard Grimes and Michonne Anthony. The couple wishes to reestablish their commitment to each other before the eyes of God and their loved ones. Let no man pull asunder what God has ordained this day. Repeat after me please. I, Richard Grimes, take thee, Michonne Anthony, to be my lawfully wedded wife. To have and to hold. To honor and to cherish until death do us part."
Rick repeats Father Gabriel's words while looking directly into his wife-to-be's eyes. He then places the wedding band on her finger.
Father Gabriel looks to Michonne. "Please repeat after me. I, Michonne Antony, take thee, Richard Grimes, to be my lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold. To honor and to cherish until death do us part."
Michonne repeats the words returning Rick's gaze and places the band on his finger.
"By the powers invested in me within the state of Georgia, I now pronounce you husband and wife." Father Gabriel smiles genuinely, knowing he has done something worthwhile today. "Rick you may now salute your bride."
Rick steps to Michonne with a knowing expression and places his hands on either side of her face. He leans in gently and places his lips against hers. She opens her mouth slightly, inviting him in and he accepts willingly. The world fades away for those brief seconds and it is just the two of them, lost in each other.
Carl and Andre giggle as their parents kiss, the sound reminding the newlyweds they have an audience.
Michonne and Rick pull apart and Father Gabriel announces, "Ladies and gentlemen, I present Mr. and Mrs. Richard Grimes."
The others burst into cheers and applause, congratulating them with longevity and well wishes.