Chapter 8 - "What's Mine Is Yours"

Over the next several weeks, Kate and Simon started to fall into a routine. She slept mostly in his room; his bed was bigger than hers. She would wonder sleepily in after a long shift at the hospital, and he was there most evenings, waiting for her with something to eat.

Simon usually rose early, careful not to wake her. He was required to meet with Negan every morning before breakfast. Simon was usually left in charge of the day-to-day tasks around the compound. Inventory, checking on prisoners, taking stock of the kitchens. Making sure everyone was following the rules, especially when Negan was off grounds.

But this morning, Negan's mood was different. He sat at his desk, back turned away from Simon.

"Simon, we have a problem". Negan turned around slowly, Lucille resting on his shoulder.

"Already? The sun just came up." Simon replied, trying to keep the conversation moving.

"I'm disappointed in you, Simon. You know that everything here belongs to me. The food. The guns. Your ass. And your little girlfriend's ass. And oh, what an ass it is. Don't think I haven't noticed her."

This was it. Simon knew that this moment was going to come. He could protect Kate from almost everyone and everything, but not Negan. He knew what was coming next, and it made his blood boil.

"Simon, I've been good to you. And because I'm a nice guy, I'm gonna let you have a chance to share this arrangement with Kate before I come to find her."

Simon shifted his feet, crossing his arms against his chest.

"Arrangement?" Simon asked.

" If you want to lay claim to her, that's fine. Hell, I think it's a great idea. But I want to make sure that you're getting what you deserve. "

Negan stood and walked to Simon, leaning to whisper in his ear.

"And I don't like sloppy seconds."

Negan patted Simon on the shoulder, and walked out of the office.

Simon wasted no time getting to the hospital. He barged in, pushing a few people out of his way, as he headed directly for Kate, where she was administering medication.

" Get lost," He ordered the man in front of him.

"Jesus, Simon. What's wrong?" Kate asked, alarmed.

"We need to talk. Now."

Simon shared his previous conversation with Kate. He was upset, and now she stood, arms crossed, in response to his news.

"No way. I am not going to have sex with Negan. What were you thinking? "

" I was thinking that I wanted to keep you alive. I don't like it either. "

"This is bullshit. Simon, I can't do this!"

"Baby, if you don't, your life is over. Negan doesn't believe in rape. But he always gets what he wants. He'll torture you to get it. Hell, he'll make me torture you."

Kate was dumbfounded. What kind of world was this? But deep down, she knew that Simon was right. Negan would do unspeakable things to her, if she didn't give in to his demand. She was learning all too well what Negan was capable of.

She looked up at Simon, tears welling in her eyes. She stood up on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek.

" I love you, Simon," She said, taking his hand.

He squeezed hers in response. No one had said those words to him in a long time. And now, this beautiful woman wanted him, faults and all. He kissed her deeply, and pulled her close

" I love you too, Kate. Despite all I am."

"I'll take care of Negan. Tonight. "