Die For You

Previously…

"Now I know you were incapacitated," He drawled, eyes twinkling. "But you can't tell me dear Daryl kept his hands off a hot little thing like you."

I recognised the predatory look he gave me in that moment. I knew I was navigating a slippery slope. I bit my lip. "Daryl isn't the kind of guy to just throw a girl up against a tree in the moonlight and have his way with her." I chuckled with a little shrug.

Negan scoffed, "You okay with that?" His voice was velvet in the darkness.

I couldn't stop the blush that rose up my neck and settled on my cheeks. "If I tell you, I'll spoil the story." He chuckled at that. "Now, shut your trap and listen."

West Georgia Correctional Facility

My eyes flew wide. I wanted to protest but opened my mouth and could barely make a sound. He cocked an eyebrow. Damn it. I did need his help. This wasn't how I pictured getting to know the man. I bit my lip, choking down another yelp of pain and nodded. Daryl sighed and pushed up the pillows on my bed to the head of it so he could prop up against them. He had me stand up, so he could pull the covers down. I leaned into him when he straightened, burying my burning face into his chest for a moment. I was so embarrassed. His palms settled on my shoulders, not quite wrapping me into a hug. Then after a few moments, he slid into the bed, carefully pulling me with him so I sat between his legs, leaning back against his chest.

He felt warm, and secure as I pulled my long braid out of his face and over my shoulder. One hand rested on my burning ribs and the other I clenched into a fist in my lap. He grabbed my hand and unfurled it, holding it gently in his. "Ya gotta relax." He explained, lips ghosting the shell of my ear. His other hand covered my hand that was clutching my side and gently pried it away from my body, letting it rest on his knee. "That's it." He encouraged as I swallowed, trying to get my breathing to match his. He let go of my hand on his knee and placed his hand on my chest just below my breasts, to help direct the rise and fall of my chest to match his own. "Easy, you got this." His hand left my chest to settle on my shoulder, still encouraging me to match the rhythm of his breath.

I closed my eyes trying to solely focus on breathing with him. Minutes turned into an hour and he didn't quit murmuring encouragements until I felt myself begin to drift off.

"Ya with me, Roz?" Daryl asked softly, lips back at my ear. God damn, he had to know that drove me crazy. I hummed a little in response. "Doing great." He drawled, his chest rumbling with how deep his voice was. Seemed he was close to sleep too. I was unable to stay awake to reply, a fitful sleep claimed me, vivid dreams of walkers and a blue eyed man chased me through the night.

I awoke feeling very warm. It was still dark, so I probably only slept for a few hours. Hushed unmistakably male voices brought me further into consciousness.

"She's a guard." Rick murmured. "She had keys, for Christ's sake."

"So ya believe 'er." Daryl spoke, his voice washed over me in gravely waves.

"You don't?" Rick questioned, brows furrowing in confusion.

"Don't matter." Daryl scoffed softly, "You're the leader, Rick."

Rick rolled his eyes, dragging a hand over his face, heaving a heavy sigh. "Well this is a different sight than from yesterday, eh?" He laughed on soft breath. "Looks pretty harmless like that, don't she?"

Yesterday? I questioned. Oh no, maybe I'd slept so long it was night again. Shit.

Daryl scoffed softly, nodding toward my mini arsenal hanging by the door. "Tougher tha' she looks." My braid had come loose and he was running his fingers through my hair soothingly. No wonder I was asleep so long.

Rick made an affirming noise. "Fractured ribs, bullet wound, concussion." He let loose a low whistle. "Must have been running on pure adrenaline."

I'd heard enough. I let out a little hum, signaling that I was coming back to the land of the living. My stomach rolled a little, causing my breath to hitch, jostling my ribs, bringing all my injuries back to life. "Fuuuuuck." I groaned, my eyes fluttering open. I slowly registered Rick sitting on the cot next to me. A glance down revealed Daryl was still propped up behind me, as his legs encased mine. I realized I was clutching his shirt, so I released my grip and smoothed the fabric. "Sorry." I mumbled, glancing up at him through my lashes. He simply regarded me openly, a soft smile playing on his lips, shaking his head once as if to say, no big deal. "How long was I out?"

"Twelve hours, give or take." Rick answered, eyeing the two of us good naturedly. Apparently Daryl wasn't usually a cuddler.

My eyes flew wide. "Oh, shit." I swore, trying to sit up. "I'm sorry, that's ridiculous." My breath started to speed up. Not good. "You p-probably n-need-"

Daryl's hands gripped my shoulders. "Whoa, easy, Roz." I forced myself to take a deep breath even though it hurt like hell. Once my breathing evened out, he said, "Now sit up, concentrate." He coached, helping me get upright. Without letting go of me, he slid up to sit next to me.

"Hey there." Rick said, giving me a soft smile.

I nodded to him, giving him a tight smile. "Hey." I managed to ground out. Daryl handed me two pills from the nightstand and a bottle of water. I popped them and took a long drag of liquid.

"When you've recovered, we need to discuss how we move forward, together." Rick emphasized. Well, I guess my not being a prisoner helped bolster the trust factor. I nodded. "Good." Rick smiled and took a quick breath, "I've asked Daryl to look after ya." We shared a look that said a little more than that. Rick wanted me watched at all times until I could properly integrate into the group. I totally understood. He had a group of people depending on him for survival, he couldn't afford to take chances.

I suddenly really needed the toilet. "T-toilet." I stammered out, moving to stand up. Rick stood up and offered his arms as support. They way these two man hovered around me told me they were good men. They saw someone in trouble and didn't hesitate to help.

"I'm good." I whispered, flashing a smile at Daryl. He scoffed, crossing his arms. It was a bonafide miracle and sheer stubbornness that allowed me to get out of the room to the nearest cell. I'd draped a blanket over the cell door for privacy once it became clear the Apocalypse was happening. Once I had done my business I returned to find the room empty. Daryl must have needed some fresh air.

Hershel and Beth appeared, Rick or Daryl must have told them I was awake. "How's your pain?" Hershel asked, flashing the light in my eyes again. Well, at least that didn't hurt like a mother fucker anymore. "Four or five." I answered.

The older man nodded, "How is your breathing?" He asked motioned for Beth to help me sit up. I thankfully didn't have to lean on her too hard, she looked quite frail herself.

"Better." I swallowed, feeling my cheeks heat a little. "Daryl helped calm me down so I could sleep."

Herself smiled softly, "I'm glad." He unwrapped my bandage and checked the stitches. He hummed in approval. "Yes, looking good." He placed a clean bandage over it and with Beth's help wrapped me up again.

"Thank you." I murmured, giving each of them a nod. "Is it possible to go outside for a few minutes?" I asked biting my lip, "The catwalk should still be clear of zom- uh, walkers." I corrected, "I'd love to get some fresh air."

Hershel turned to the doorway where Daryl had appeared. He was holding a precious baby girl. They had a baby? How was that possible? My mind reeled with the significance of this, all the while waiting for someone to give the okay for me to get some fresh air.

"I don't see why not." Hershel drawled. "Go slow, be careful." He stood up and grabbed his crutches, swinging out of the room. Beth hesitated in the doorway as Daryl sat down next to me.

Oh, the baby was so beautiful. Her little eyes fluttered, revealing bright blue orbs, not unlike the man who held her. "Yeah, ya like that sweetheart?" Daryl cooed, holding the bottle for her, rocking her a little. I pressed my lips together to keep from smiling like an idiot. The sight before me felt like it was out of a movie. He shifted closer so I could see her more clearly, I leaned over and ran my fingers over the top of her forehead, brushing her little tuft of hair.

"What's her name?" I asked, glancing up to see Beth watching us with curiosity.

Daryl glanced up, clearly unaware of how we must look to the young blonde. He smirked, "Lil' ass kicker." He drawled, giving a genuine smile.

"Ass kicker?" I questioned. Daryl cooed again for the baby with a nod.

"Haven't come up with a proper name yet." Beth explained with a soft smile.

I nodded, then thought for a moment. "She yours?" I asked looking at Daryl, suddenly feeling very sober. Jesus, maybe he had a wife or something. Maybe that's why things between us were so awkward. I was such a fucking idiot.

Daryl's eyes went wide. So, that was a no. He shook his head but didn't explain who's the baby was. I couldn't imagine being pregnant with all this shit going on. Maybe the mother didn't make it, which is why Daryl was feeding her.

"You're a natural." I murmured, my hand squeezing his forearm for emphasis. He jumped a little at the contact, his eyes sliding sideways to look at me for a moment, then returning to the baby. I felt maybe I'd gone a little too far. Maybe I'd gotten a little too close, so I leaned away, occupying my hands with braiding my hair again. Beth and I shared a look that seemed to confirm my suspicion that I'd definitely crossed a line.

I continued to watch with fascination until the baby girl finished her bottle and Beth stepped forward to take her from Daryl. "I'll get her ready for sleep." She offered. "You take Rosalind for some fresh air." Daryl hesitated a moment, but released her into Beth's care.

I couldn't wait to be outside. I made it down the steps and out of the cell block with minimal assistance. Before we left the post I put my boots on, bowie knife in place just in case. I also tucked a handgun in my waistband at the small of my back. I'd secured most of the area we were heading to, but I'd been unable to repair the fence at the back of the prison, so the occasional walker ended up in the passageway we were going to use.

"That necessary?" Daryl asked, eyeing my weaponry with a quick nod.

"Makes me feel better, Ace." I winked, feeling the pain medication do its job as I fought to keep my breathing steady.

"Ace? Chief?" Dary scoffed with a scowl. "What's with you and nicknames?"

I shrugged. "Habit, I guess." I'd always called people silly nicknames. Rick was the leader, so I called him 'Chief'. Daryl seemed like the right hand man, so 'Ace' seemed to fit. "Would you rather I just call you Daryl?" He studied me for a moment, jaw clenching, then just shrugged. "It's no big deal, really. Some people just don't lik-"

"It's fine, Roz." He emphasized my nickname, sliding his crossbow strap over his shoulder, settling the weapon in place. What crawled up his ass all of a sudden?

I took lead, since I knew where we were going. Daryl stayed close, practically becoming my shadow. We rounded the last corner before going up the stairs and there were two walkers shuffling down the corridor.

"I got 'em." Daryl said calmly, stepping away a few paces, sliding his crossbow into position.

I had another idea. Before he could get his crossbow set, I knelt and pulled out my bowie knife. In one fluid motion, I stood and threw it at the first walker's head, hitting it straight in the forehead. Before it hit the ground, I pulled the knife out, spun under the other walkers reaching arms and stabbed it in the back of the head, splattering guts on my jeans. Just peachy.

"Damn." Daryl swore under his breath as I wiped the blade on my pant leg before returning it to my boot. I took a moment to catch my breath, leaning against the wall and checking my bandage. Just a little blood and my ribs were yelling, not quite screaming at me. I could handle that. "What happened to bein' careful," He scoffed, his voice rising. "Goin' slow?"

Evidently he'd heard the good doctor's instructions. Fuck that. I knew my best chance at recovery was to rest and to keep moving. If I didn't get my blood pumping I was at risk for pneumonia. I'd only had pneumonia once, and I definitely didn't want it again during the damn apocalypse.

"You gotta death wish or something?" Daryl exploded, striding over to stand in front of me, chest heaving. I'd pegged him as pretty volatile, but I'd yet to witness it. "Don't even need my help, huh bitch?"

Oh wow, bitch? Was that supposed to scare me off? I took a deep breath to calm myself, my hand flying up to clutch my ribs upon expansion. "Fuck." I muttered, closing my eyes. I didn't want him to think I was scared by his little outburst, or even turned off by it. Yeah, it made me uncomfortable, but I could tell he was way more uncomfortable than me right now, hence the explosion and name calling. I decided to play it cool and pushed off the wall, "You coming?" I turned to walk up the stairs but he stopped me, hand gripping my left bicep.

"That's all you got to say?" He was still riled up, "You comin'?" He mocked, eyes flashing.

"What?" I scoffed, shrugging him off. "You want me to get all worked up so you can feel like I need your sorry ass?" I spoke low and controlled, trying to hold on to my breathing. Showing off did have a price, I was still pretty out of breath. Daryl just stared at me, chest heaving, jaw set. I took another deep breath, swallowing another curse at the burning in my chest. "You coming?"I asked again, eyebrows raised. This time he let me pass. I slowly made my way up the steps, still winded from my little show. When we reached the top of the steps, the door was locked. I took the keys off my belt to use them. My hands shook so bad that I had trouble getting the key in the lock and I dropped the whole set at my feet.

"Here." Daryl growled, stepping forward into my space and picking up the keys.

He straightened, one palm braced above me against the door. I took his other hand in mine to show him which key. "See, I do need you." I whispered before I let go, leaning back against the door, staring up at him.

He looked at me sideways, jaw clenching. He scoffed, shaking his head, inserting the key into the lock, giving it a turn. I went through the door and felt myself relax for the first time in weeks. The courtyard below was completely clear of walkers. The next area around that was clear as well. "Holy Hell." I swore, clutching the fence. "Your group is incredible."

Daryl nodded with a grunt, pulling out a box of cigarettes. I guess mister hot head was still licking his wounds. He offered me one, dangling another casually between his lips. Oh, I hadn't had a cigarette in ages. I'd run out months ago and I was more concerned with surviving then smoking at this point. I'd always done it socially anyway. As much as I wanted to join him, the pain in my ribs reminded me that it probably wasn't a good idea.

"Thanks but no thanks, Ace." I murmured, gesturing towards my injury. Daryl's eyes widened for a second and he ducked his head with a nod and tucked the box back into his pocket. The Georgia sky was just now becoming fully dark, the remaining light fading rapidly from the horizon. Usually this close to the city we would have some light pollution. Now, the expanse of stars was breathtaking. I sat down, then laid back so I could take in the entire sky, my lips forming a soft smile. The longer I laid there, the more restless Daryl got.

Suddenly I felt him sit down, then after removing his crossbow, he lay back, his shoulder brushing mine. He sighed and got comfortable, resting his hands behind his head.

"Do you miss it?" I asked softly, turning my head to look at him.

He turned his head to look at me. "Miss what?" He asked, his voice soft again.

I held his gaze for a moment, then looked back at the stars. "The way the world used to be." I clarified with a sigh, "You know, family dysfunction, television shows, vacations, restaurants,." I smiled, "bacon."

"Bacon?" He scoffed softly. "Really?"

"Yeah, I guess I miss it more than I thought." I giggled, glancing back at him, feeling more carefree than I'd felt in ages. I took a breath, "What do you miss the most?"

Daryl sighed, his gaze returning to the stars. "Never really had much of that stuff anyway." He replied gruffly.

"What did you do before all this?" I asked, turning to gauge his reaction. He obviously knew what I did, I'd used my resume as a fucking bargaining chip to get them to keep me around.

I could see he was debating on whether or not to tell me. I was still a complete stranger, yeah he'd help me get over the worst of my injury last night, but that hardly made us friends. He cleared his throat, "My brother, Merle and I, we uh, sorta just drifted from place to place." He glanced over at me, his eyes shining. I could tell he really cared about Merle.

I took a deep breath, willing my lungs to expand properly. It still hurt, but I was doing so much better with all the sleep I'd gotten. "I lost my sister, Alison, in Atlanta." I confessed, keeping my gaze up at the stars. I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes. I tried to swallow them back, but a few escaped down the sides of my face. "It was so early." I cleared my throat. "I was on the phone with her when it happened." I scoffed, "Her boyfriend came home the night before, bitten, but he hadn't turned yet." I swallowed, trying not to sob. "I tried to convince her that he was going to hurt her, but she just wouldn't listen to me." My voice was so small I wasn't sure if he'd heard me.

"Shit." He swore and I jumped as his calloused fingers smoothed away fresh tears from my face. "That's fucked up."

"Yeah," I agreed, sniffling. "Jesus, sorry." I scoffed, sitting up, causing his hand to fall away. I moved a little too fast and the world spun. "Whoa."

"Easy." Daryl chided, sitting up with me, his voice still soft. I could tell I struck a chord with the story of my sister.

I took another deep breath, trying to get my bearings. I leaned back against the fence, facing the front gate. He joined me, lighting another cigarette.

"How long?" I asked, looking over at him. He turned his head after releasing a long drag, watching me through his hair.

"Been a year." He answered around his cigarette before taking another drag. "Got separated. Not sure where he ended up." He released the smoke.

I pursed my lips. At least I knew that Alison was dead. "That would kill me." I murmured. "Not knowing."

Daryl frowned. "Sometimes." He cleared his throat. "Merle's a survivor. He's out there somewhere, raising hell."

I chuckled at that. Sounded like Merle was a handful. From the outburst I'd witnessed, probably just as volatile, if not more. I suddenly shivered, the wind picked up and our perch was definitely exposed to the elements. I shifted closer to him, my bare shoulder brushing his bicep.

"Holy shit your skin's like ice, woman." Daryl scoffed, arm popping up in surprise. I scooted closer and he awkwardly put his arm around me. "We should go back inside if you're cold." He murmured, seemingly unsure of our new posture.

I hummed in approval despite the awkwardness, "Not cold now." I insisted. He snorted softly. "Just a few more minutes."

He tossed his spent cigarette and squinted down at me. His shoulders and chest remained rigid, despite having his arm around me. I looked up and met his gaze with my own. His eyes shone again, this time I could see how unsure he was, having me this close. I could tell Daryl was used to having everyone at arm's length unless maybe he was punching them.

I gave him a warm smile, "Thank you, Daryl." I murmured, He looked away, so I reached up and gently grasped his chin to make him look at me again, his breathing sped up a little. "I mean it, Daryl. I wouldn't have made it through last night without you." I sighed, letting go of his face settling back into his side. "I know you don't know me and helping me is a major risk, especially with the state the world is in-"

"It's what we do." He interrupted me. I could tell he was uncomfortable with the conversation.

I barked a laugh,"Well, I've met my fair share of people before and after the world fell." I sighed, "Your group is special."

Daryl snorted, chuckling softly. "Could be yours too."

Oh my GOD. That felt huge. I straightened up so I could look at him, causing his arm to fall away from my shoulders. I tried to play it off. "Sure about that?" I scoffed, "bitch?" I knocked my shoulder into his playfully.

Daryl ducked his head, arms resting on his knees. He lifted his head and I was struck with the shame I saw in his eyes. That wasn't what I wanted.

I bit my lip, "Daryl, I-"

"No," He stopped me. "I was an asshole." He murmured, his gaze softening.

I chuckled. "Yeah, but I deserved it, too." I bit my lip. "Let's say we're even."

He smirked and gave me a single nod, not meeting my eyes.

"C'mon." I pushed off the cement and stood up, using the fence for support. "I need another hit." I winked.

Daryl laughed. He actually laughed. It was neat to see him so relaxed. It also felt amazing that I had done that. I was able to get him to bring his guard down, even just for a few moments.

The passageway was thankfully clear on our return to the safety and security of Cell Block C. We arrived in the cafeteria and I felt my stomach rumble. A lovely brunette was cleaning up the table and kitchen area.

"Oh my, you must be Rosalind!" She exclaimed. "I'm Maggie." She introduced herself, her accent definitely southern Georgia if I'd ever heard it.

I mirrored her warm smile. For being through so much, these people sure did seem friendly. "Hi Maggie." I croaked, coughing suddenly.

"Here," She motioned to the freshly wiped table. "Take a seat, I'll grab you some water."

"She missed dinner." Daryl drawled, settling at the table, opposite me.

"Oh, no problem, let's see what we can round up for you." Maggie assured me, setting a cup of water in front of each of us before going back into the pantry. Daryl handed me two more white pain pills and I took them gratefully.

She returned and set a plate before me. Another sandwich and this time there were canned peaches. "Thank you." I said with a nod. I ate slowly, still not trusting my stomach.

A few minutes later she returned to fill our glasses. Then she retired for the night. "I'm off to bed." She yawned. "You two best get to bed soon, too." She smiled, squeezing Daryl's shoulder affectionately. "Just put your stuff by the sink, I'll wash it tomorrow." I sensed a connection between them. This group had been together for awhile, maybe since the beginning.

"Thank you, Maggie." I murmured as she left the room. She nodded before disappearing through the doorway.

I ate the peaches and half the sandwich and felt pretty full. "You want the rest?" I offered. I knew he was probably hungry. Hunger just seemed like sweating; inevitable. He cocked an eyebrow. "I'm full, honest." I insisted, sliding the plate to him.

He grunted and nodded. He took the sandwich and I stood up, taking the now empty plate and glasses over to the sink. I rinsed and stacked them neatly. I turned away from the sink, tweaking my ribs the wrong direction "Fuck!" I swore softly, turning back to grip the edge of the sink, my knuckles turning white. He was behind me in a flash, his nearness causing my skin to prickle. "I'm fine." I ground out, my teeth clenched. "Just pulled on the stitches." I sighed, turning slowly to face him. "Hurt like a mother fucker…" I trailed off, lifting my shirt a little so I could see the bandage, make sure there wasn't the gush of blood I feared, seeping through the gauze. He didn't move away from me, his hands smoothed over the bandage, making sure it was still dry. My breath caught at his touch, his fingers brushed my bare skin and I bit my lip, unable to stop the whimper that escaped my lips. My hands smoothed up his chest, "Daryl," I breathed, my voice thick, trying to get him to look at me. We were so close, I could see the confusion in his eyes.

"Hmmm." He murmured, hands leaving my bandage, letting my shirt fall back down. His hands settled on my hips, his breathing heavy. I could tell he was caught between acting on what he was feeling, and maybe not knowing how. He was staring at my lips, tongue darting out to wet his own. I shifted so my back was in the corner between the wall and the cabinet. He shifted with me, face dangerously close to mine. I could smell the cigarette he'd been smoking mixed with the bread he'd just eaten. He leaned closer until his lips were less than an inch from mine. I leaned up on my toes to close the distance between us when a crash from the hallway jerked us apart.

Suddenly Daryl was across the room, crossbow in place, stalking towards the door. Rick appeared in the doorway, holding a cup in his hand. "Sorry." He grinned sheepishly, palming the back of his neck. "It slipped outta ma' hand."

"Jesus," Daryl swore. "I coulda killed ya." He scoffed, settling his weapon back in place. I had yet to move from my place plastered in the corner against the cabinet, chest heaving. What the hell just happened?

Dearest Readers,

I hope you're enjoying this adventure as much as I am. Shout out to OriginalSluggo for the wonderful review! Thank you for your feedback, it means the world to me!

Alright, I hope by now you've realized I'm trying to keep Daryl as intact as a character as possible. Of course he's going to change a little with someone like Roz by his side, but I still want to write him as close to the descriptions I've heard from Norman Reedus, the writers and dear Daryl himself on screen.

Thank you for your support.

xoxo

Lumora The White