Hello again! Hope you're ready for more :D Picking up right where we left off - the last time we saw these two, they were still in the closet at Deanna's party. Stick around to see how the rest of their night goes ;) Warning: this chapter will seem short! But not to worry - I have more planned for this particular story line. PM suggestions if you have them, and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own The Walking Dead

Chapter 16: After-party

It's fine. He didn't leave any marks. At least not where anyone would notice…

Carol was painfully aware of the scratches on her ass as she walked back towards the living room.

After several foolish minutes of heated kissing in the closet, she managed to pull herself away from her lover's mouth. She'd shimmied into her pants, much to Daryl's amusement, and did her best to smooth the front of her sweater. As she reached for the knob with a shaking hand, the hunter wished her luck. Carol just sighed and braced herself as she prepared to open the door.

By some miracle, she'd chosen the perfect time to slip out of the closet. Her eyes darted left and right, but the hall was deserted. Holding her breath, she eased out and shut the door carefully behind her. Reminding herself to walk straight, she'd made a beeline for the guest bathroom.

Once she was alone, Carol allowed herself to breathe. She took a moment to splash cool water on her face and gather her thoughts.

"You can't let him do that." she muttered to herself.

Someone could've heard us…found us…we don't have excuses if anyone asks where either of us has been…

She reached for a nearby hand-towel and dabbed carefully at her face. As the water dried, Carol wondered if they really needed excuses.

"We didn't do anything wrong."

But that wasn't entirely true. She did feel guilty about abandoning the rest of the party guests to disappear into a closet and have reckless sex with her partner. The party was being held to welcome her group after all.

She was still hopeful that she could earn Stephen's trust, and get close enough to snatch a copy of the key to the arsenal. The task was going to prove much more difficult now that she and Daryl had become an 'us.'

He's not going to leave you alone with Stephen if he can help it.

Sighing, Carol placed the hand towel back on the ring and studied her reflection. Her lips were slightly swollen, her face was flushed and her hair was a mess. She could still feel traces of him between her legs, and she knew his smell was on her skin.

"I'm his…" she spoke softly, confessing to the woman in the mirror. "And he's mine. It's us."

Her likeness stared back, wide-eyed and with parted lips. Saying it out loud seemed to make it real. She had no idea how she was going to get into the arsenal with Daryl watching her every move. But his sudden aggression and dominance…his jealousy…it was all turning her on.

You're not finished with Stephen.

"I know." she breathed, bowing her head for a moment. As she stood in the bathroom, trying to plan her next moves, something occurred to Carol. She lifted her chin and a smile crept on to her face.

You can do this.

"Stephen…" she let the name fall from her lips; a simple solution.

Standing up a little straighter, she focused on her reflection. She knew what she needed to do.

Keep talking to him.

"I'll get the information I need, build a rapport…and Daryl will get angry."

That thought intrigued her. She knew what Daryl was like when he was angry…what that tension translated to in bed…the more frustrated he was with her, the harder he took her. Just thinking about it sent a chill up her spine.

He won't cause a scene…he's smarter than that. All he can do is pout.

Realizing that she could continue to work on Stephen, without jeopardizing her relationship with Daryl, Carol smiled

You can do this.

She'd left the bathroom feeling secure enough, but as she made her way down the hall, her confidence began to crumble. The sounds of the party were getting louder. In a matter of seconds, she'd be back in the thick of it. The thought made her anxious. She'd be expected to blend in, make conversation…and ignore the soreness deep in her core.

Carol was no stranger to difficult situations; she'd overcome more than her fair share of obstacles before and after the turn. But this was different. A very startling, unexpected change had just taken place in her life and it was proving to be a very poorly timed distraction. She needed to focus on the task at hand…not lose herself in thoughts of what the future might hold for her and Daryl. Just knowing that the hunter would be lingering at the party, watching her, made the whole thing that much more complicated.

Clear your head. Just grab a glass of water from the kitchen and breathe.

With a small nod, Carol acknowledged the wisdom in her own words.

Walk straight, smile, nod, wave if you need to.

She repeated the words in her head as she reached the living room. Fortunately, no one seemed to noticed as she passed by. She'd genuinely hoped that she could seek temporary asylum in the kitchen, but the second she walked in, all eyes were on her.

Carol nearly jumped when she saw Rick, Glenn and Stephen standing together, chatting over drinks. The rational part of her brain knew that she had no reason to feel guilty, but it didn't matter. She stood in the entryway, feeling as though she were naked. Words were sticking in her throat.

Stephen's face lit up when he saw her. "There you are."

Reminding herself to behave normally, Carol smiled and walked into the kitchen, towards her friends. "Hi." she said.

"Thought maybe you ducked out early." Stephen teased.

Carol could feel her temperature rising. Doing her best to stay calm, she reached for one of the cabinets that held clean glasses. "I wouldn't leave without saying goodbye." she said, a pleasant tone to her voice.

"Here; let me get that." He pulled open the cabinet door and grabbed a glass for her.

"Thanks." she smiled at him. She tried to ignore the way her heart was thrumming as she stood in front of the sink and turned on the tap.

"This one was lookin' for you." said Rick, as he gestured towards Stephen.

Carol held her glass under the stream. "Oh?"

The widower seemed to blush a little and he scuffed his shoe on the floor. "Just…thought you were running to the kitchen. Guess I figured you'd be right back."

The ache in Carol's core seemed to worsen in that moment. "I'm so sorry. The chardonnay had me feeling a little light headed. Didn't realize it until I got up for that snack run."

"Oh. Wish you would've said something. I would've been more than happy to get my own snacks. You doing better?" he asked, his drink cradled in his hands.

Carol clutched her own glass as she leaned back against the counter. "No; it's fine. I just needed a few minutes. I splashed a little water on my face and I think that did the trick."

Stephen was smiling at her. "Glad you're feeling better."

She forced a small chuckle and took a sip of her water. Peeking over the rim of the glass, Carol eyed the rest of her companions. Rick seemed to be in a good mood. The man had a little color in his cheeks, but Glenn's expression made her blink. He was unusually pale. She almost thought he looked sick.

"Glenn?" she said.

"Hm?" he glanced at her, his dark eyes heavy with worry.

"You alright?"

He coughed before taking a swig of his beer. "I'm good."

Carol's gaze was skeptical. "You enjoying the party?"

He couldn't seem to hold the connection and had to look down at the bottle in his hand. "Sure." he mumbled. Meanwhile, the things he really wanted to say were echoing in his head.

Not as much as you.

"You just look a little pale. You sure you're feeling okay?" she asked.

Glenn lifted his chin, but when he locked eyes with Carol, he wished he hadn't. He could see things…little differences no one else would notice. Her face was slightly flushed…her hair was a little messy…just barely out of place. He caught the subtle movement as her fingers anxiously tapped the side of her glass. Before he could stop it, an image of her appeared in his mind's eye.

Glenn's subconscious produced the picture so quickly that it made him blink. Carol…naked, moaning and swearing… He'd heard the sounds she made…the name she called out in that closet. Trying to block out any images of Daryl, Glenn reached up and rubbed his eyes with his free hand.

"Yeah…no. I'm fine. Think I'm just tired." he finally answered.

Natural concern kicked in and Carol moved towards her friend. Without warning, she extended her arm and pressed the back of her hand to his forehead.

He nearly jumped.

"Easy." she said, letting her hand linger. "Just checking. You feel a little warm."

Glenn was trying not to wince. He didn't want to think about where Carol's hand had probably been.

Her expression was equal parts concern and suspicion as she studied him. She slid the back of her hand up just a little higher on his brow. "Not sure you're warm enough to be running a fever."

She was close enough for Glenn to catch her scent…she smelled like Daryl. Suddenly uncomfortable with the closeness, he took a step back and Carol pulled her hand away. They eyed one another, each of them trying to puzzle out what the other was thinking.

"Think I'm just feeling a little off. This was a long day." he said, fumbling for excuses.

"Yeah." Rick added. "He'll be alright. He had a group in the woods earlier, teachin' 'em to scout. He's just beat." The deputy clapped his friend on the shoulder.

Carol wasn't convinced. She had a knack for reading people and something about Glenn's demeanor made her think that there was more to it than a long day. She briefly wondered if one of the Alexandrians had said something to him, or if he'd overheard some sensitive bits of conversation that he couldn't share in front of Stephen.

"If you say so." she said, a small smile on her face.

"You worry too much." Stephen chuckled.

Carol turned to face the widower again. "Can't help it." she shrugged and chuckled right along with him.

Glenn was about to take another sip of his beer but he stopped. As he watched Carol and Stephen laughing together, and saw the way she was smiling at him, he thought of Daryl. He remembered the brief conversation he'd had with the hunter earlier that evening.

Oh god…

He closed his eyes and ran a hand through his hair in exasperation.

I made that happen. I told him about her and Stephen…

Glenn felt sick.

Sighing and easing his eyes open, he continued to study the two companions. But a fresh discovery made his lips part.

Wait…if telling him that set him off…how long has this…no…

He didn't want to think about it.

Carol could feel him watching her and she glanced at him. The long-time friends stared at one another. Her brows knit together as she tried to determine what was wrong with Glenn. His eyes seemed to drift to her sweater and Carol looked down, noticing a spot where the fabric was slightly rumpled. Her suspicion increased tenfold and she refocused on Glenn's face.

What aren't you saying?

But he just brought the beer to his lips and took a sip. Carol didn't understand. Glenn had never looked at her like that. He seemed visibly shaken…uncomfortable even. His eyes flicked back to the wrinkled part of her sweater…and that's when it hit her.

No…

Her eyes narrowed. In that moment…four people stood in the kitchen, none of whom had a solid grasp on what was taking place. Rick was watching the way Glenn watched Carol; Stephen was frustrated at the temporary loss of Carol's attention, and Glenn was trying to keep his expression stoic, but he knew it wasn't working.

Carol's temperature continued to spike as she considered the possibility that Glenn might've overheard her and Daryl somehow.

No. I'm sure that…it's gotta be something else. It has to be.

The reality of someone else knowing that she'd just been taken against a wall…in a closet…was too much for her and she blinked, forcing the unpleasant thoughts from her skull. There were more important things to focus on; her concerns about Glenn would just have to wait

Determined to change course and leave the whole thing alone, Carol turned back towards Stephen. "You're right." she said, a smile on her lips. "I guess I worry too much. Distract me."

Instantly intrigued, the widower inched just a little closer to her. "Not sure I'm up to the task."

"I don't think you're giving yourself enough credit." she teased.

Meanwhile, Rick leaned into Glenn's space and whispered to the younger man. "We oughtta leave 'em be."

Glenn could only nod.

As the two companions walked out of the kitchen, Rick continued to speak in hushed tones. "He the guys works at the arsenal?"

"Yeah."

"That what I think it is?" his eyes flicked back to the couple they'd left behind in the kitchen.

Glenn slipped his free hand into his pocket and clutched his beer a little tighter. "Just Carol being Carol."

The deputy smirked and shook his head. "She's got him where she wants him. Bet she gets her hands on a set of those keys by the end of the week."

Glenn closed his eyes for a moment. He was growing increasingly tired of thinking about Carol's hands. "Yeah. I'm sure she will."

Unless Daryl loses it and beats the shit out of that guy…

Rick gave his friend a pat on the back. "Best leave her to it then."

"You can't be serious!" said Carol. She was laughing so hard that her eyes closed.

"I wish that I was joking…" Stephen chuckled.

The two eventually found their way back to the couch. Tara and Denise had joined them and the four had been refilling each other's glasses for the better part of an hour. Carol didn't intend to overindulge, but the evening had proven incredibly taxing.

It didn't seem to matter where she went or what she did…she could sense Daryl's presence…like a shadow that followed her… She occasionally caught glimpses of him in the periphery of her vision, and he always wore the same sullen expression. Every time she turned a corner she could feel his eyes on her back. It was thrilling, but exhausting.

Carol was patient, strong, resourceful, but she couldn't keep putting on a show for Stephen while she was hopelessly distracted by thoughts of her partner, and what she wanted to do to him once they were alone. So, against her better judgment, she'd paid another visit to the table where the wine bottles were arranged. She'd sighed inwardly as she watched the bubbly liquid fill her glass a third, and fourth time…

As much as she hated the taste, Carol had to admit that the alcohol was helping. It made her feel lighter. Enticing thoughts of Daryl and his body were temporarily blocked from her mind. She devoted herself to her mission, giving Stephen all of her time and attention.

When Tara and Denise eased onto the couch, conversation seemed to liven up and flow more naturally. It didn't take long before they were all laughing at each other and swapping stories from happier times. Carol was caught up in a rosy haze and she couldn't seem to stop smiling.

"Streaking?" she said, wiping at her eyes.

"We were seniors…I don't know what we were thinking. But it seemed like a good idea at the time." said Stephen.

The three women all dissolved into fits of laughter.

"Yuck it up." he said. "Like you never did anything stupid…"

"We're not saying that." Tara interjected.

"No? Well let's hear it then. One of you has to top that story." Stephen urged.

"Yeah. Come on. Spill it." said Denise as she nudged Tara's knee with her own.

"Leave her alone." Carol laughed before taking another sip of the chardonnay.

"You taking her place then?" Stephen asked.

Carol nearly choked on her wine. "Now wait a minute…"

"Kinda sounds like you volunteered." said Denise.

"I have to agree." the widower added.

Carol ran a hand through her hair and blushed.

"Wow." Stephen grinned. "It must be pretty good, whatever it is."

She couldn't stop herself from giggling.

Tara leaned forward on the couch and cast a sideways glance at Carol. "We need to get you drunk more often."

Carol gasped. "I'm not drunk. I'm just…not entirely sober."

Denise snorted.

"Well; whatever this is…" said Stephen as he gestured at her, "It looks good on you."

Tara and Denise exchanged glances, smirking at one another.

Carol lowered her gaze for a moment and rubbed the back of her neck. When her eyes finally flicked back to Stephen's face, she was gnawing the corner of her bottom lip. "I'm glad you think so."

His smile got a little wider. "You're not off the hook. I don't care how cute you are…"

Carol blushed and giggled again.

"Think you better start talking." Tara laughed.

"It's really not that interesting." Carol insisted.

"I think we should get the chance to decide for ourselves." said Denise.

"You two are no help!" Carol took another sip of her wine.

"I disagree." said Stephen. "I think they have every right to hear this story of yours. What are you so worried about? We're not here to judge. We've all done our fair share of stupid things, I'm sure."

Carol sighed; her head was swimming.

"Or are you gonna try and tell us you've never made a bad decision?" Denise asked.

Carol's face was warm and they were all looking at her. She had to say something. Deep down, the rational part of her knew that the list of poor choices she'd made over the years was a mile long...and the majority of them weren't things she'd ever share with someone like Stephen. She guessed that there were a few stories that might satisfy her friends…but she'd had too much wine and only one thing was coming to mind. She covered her eyes with her free hand and shook with trapped laughter.

"Just spit it out." said Tara.

"Gosh…okay." Carol blew out a breath rubbed her neck again. "Something stupid…let me think…"

"We'll wait." Stephen assured her.

"Fine. Alright? But like I said…it's nothing special."

"Sure." Denise laughed.

"I was at a party once…and…" Carol chuckled. She couldn't seem to get the rest of the words out.

"What?" Tara asked eagerly. She was still leaning forward to get a good look at her friend.

Carol took another sip of wine before continuing. "I didn't wanna be there…I barely knew most of the people, but a few friends of mine were there so I figured I'd give it a chance."

"When was this?" Denise asked.

Despite the haze, Carol's brain managed to produce a quick answer. "College."

"Ah." Stephen smiled. "This should be good."

Carol just shook her head and sighed again.

"We're waiting." said Tara.

"So the party…it just seemed to drag. I was really looking for any excuse to duck out but couldn't think of one. I'd had a drink or two…nothing crazy."

"Mhmm." Denise smirked.

"I remember running into a friend of mine. He didn't wanna be there either."

"He?" Tara asked, intrigued.

"Do you want me to finish?" Carol asked, eyeing each of her companions in turn.

"Don't worry about them." said Stephen. "Go on."

"Thank you. Anyway…we got to talking. I was a little tipsy…and…" she startled giggling again.

"Here. Let me take that." Stephen carefully took Carol's glass from her hand and set it down on the coffee table.

"And…?" Tara echoed.

Carol didn't even care how much she was blushing. "I don't even remember how it happened. One minute…we were just talking…next thing I knew we were in a closet."

The others were staring at her in amazement. She couldn't take it and had to cover her face with her hands as she laughed.

Tara blinked a few times and sipped her beer. "Wow. Who knew…"

"And here I thought I had you figured out." said Stephen.

"So this wasn't even someone you were dating?" Denise asked.

Carol wiped at her eyes and shook her head. "No. Just a friend I happened to run into."

"Damn."

"You wanted to know." Carol reminded them.

"Guess I didn't have you pegged as a spur-of-the-moment kinda girl." Stephen chuckled.

"I'm not." she sighed wistfully. "This was just one of those things…we didn't plan on it." She was smiling as she stared dreamily out at the living room.

"Looks like you're enjoying this little trek down memory lane." said Denise, a teasing tone to her voice.

Carol just smirked and ran a hand through her hair, remembering the way her orgasm felt. "Maybe I am." she admitted.

"So you two just disappeared…and no one noticed?" Tara asked.

Carol shrugged. "I don't even know how long we were gone."

The others shook their heads and laughed.

"Must've been good then." said Tara. Denise smacked her leg right afterwards.

Carol's hands were clasped in her lap as she gazed up at the ceiling. "It was amazing. Stupid…but amazing. Reckless…part of me still can't believe we did that."

"Guessing this wasn't just a make-out session then." Tara chuckled.

Carol couldn't keep the grin off her face as she glanced at her friends. "It was everything."

Denise just shook her head and took a sip of her drink.

"So after all this time…" said Tara. "Just thinking about it still gets you undone huh?"

Carol knew she'd already said too much. She never should've shared such intimate details with her friends, but she couldn't seem to stop herself. She was light-headed and felt wonderfully carefree.

"I mean…" she chuckled a little and focused on her hands. "I guess…nothing else has ever really compared to that." Her face was warm but she didn't care. It was true; nothing would ever top the sex that she and Daryl had been having for the last seven days.

"Holy shit Carol…" Tara laughed.

"Hey; you asked and I answered."

Tara smiled. "Guess it just wasn't the answer I was expecting."

Carol just shrugged and smirked.

While Tara and Denise sipped their drinks and chuckled amongst themselves, Stephen took the opportunity to inch closer to Carol. The movement caught her attention and she met his gaze. Her eyes were intently focused on his.

"Something on your mind?" she asked.

He stared at her for several seconds before answering. "A few things."

"Yeah?"

"Well…one in particular." he admitted.

Carol's eyes narrowed slightly but she kept the smirk on her face. "Care to elaborate?"

"See; that's the thing…" said Stephen. "I'm not sure that I should."

"Come on," she teased. "What's it gonna hurt?"

"My chances…potentially," he laughed.

Carol rolled her eyes. "Stop."

"Fine. You really wanna know what I'm thinking?"

"I'm curious." she chuckled.

Stephen moved even closer to her. Their hips were brushing. She felt goosebumps rising on her skin.

"I was just thinking…" he said softly. "It's a shame…that nothing's come close…since then."

Carol swallowed hard. Her temperature was slowly rising.

"If…" he paused. Stephen was so close that he could smell her hair. The scent seemed to catch him off guard and he had to fight to keep himself from touching her. "If you ever feel like trying…"

She was doing her best to remain calm. His proximity was overpowering the effects of the wine and she suddenly remembered that Daryl was still at the party. "Trying?" she echoed.

"To top it." said Stephen.

Her lips parted in surprise and her heart rate sped up.

"I just…" he lowered his gaze for a split second. "I could help. If you wanted to try."

It was then that Carol realized they'd had too much to drink. He was right next to her; she could tell he was breathing her in every few seconds. "Oh." she let herself blush, hoping to mask the fear that was building inside her.

"It's just an offer." he explained, his eyes locked on hers.

"I…" she blinked a few times. "I don't really know what to say…"

"You don't have to say anything."

She continued to stare at him in awe while her heart thrummed. "Stephen…"

Carol nearly lost control of her bladder when she felt the sudden pressure of a strong grip on her shoulder. She gasped and jerked, twisting around quickly, only to find herself staring up into Daryl's face. All she could see was the anger he was trying to hide.

"Hey," she managed to say.

"Hey." he said.

"What's up?" Carol asked before clearing her throat. Daryl's hand was still on her shoulder.

"Just checkin' on ya. You doin' alright?"

She could hear the edge to his voice. As they stared at one another, Carol realized she'd lingered at the party too long. It was time to leave. "Actually," she chuckled. "I think I might've had one too many refills." Her eyes flicked to the glass that was still sitting on the coffee table.

"That right?" Daryl asked. He took a second to shoot Stephen a dirty look.

The widower didn't understand what was happening. Seconds ago, he'd been whispering with Carol. He wasn't sure why Daryl had suddenly appeared or why the man was so concerned with Carol's drinking habits.

"Think she's good. All things considered." said Stephen, a forced smile on his face.

"I wouldn't say she's good…" Denise laughed.

"Yeah; she's gone." Tara added.

Daryl refocused on his woman. His brows knit together as he stared down at her. "You gone?"

A nervous giggle escaped her and she reached up to cover her mouth with one hand. "I think I might be."

Having seen the evidence for himself, the hunter made a decision. "C'mon. I'll get ya home."

She started to get up but Stephen let his hand brush her arm. "You don't really need to go, do you?"

Daryl's jaw clenched.

Carol gave him a small smile. "I probably should. But this was fun. Thank you for keeping me company." She glanced past him and waved to Tara and Denise. "Night ladies. I trust that the two of you can keep any embarrassing revelations to yourselves."

The women just laughed and waved her on. "Our lips are sealed. Now go home." Denise assured her.

Daryl helped his partner up off the couch. She seemed slightly unbalanced as she stood beside him. "Easy," he growled softly, his arm going across her back.

The warmth and the closeness made her breath catch. All she wanted was for him to touch her. "Thanks." she chuckled.

She leaned into his side almost immediately and smiled. Daryl made sure his grip was secure before the two of them started making their way towards the front door. He cast one last glance back at Stephen but didn't let his gaze linger.

Jackass.

Carol could hear laughter, bits and pieces of conversations going on around her, but none of it mattered. All she cared about was her man. Holding on to him, she let everything else fade. She wasn't even sure whether or not anyone else tried to talk to them as they continued on their way.

She giggled when they stepped over the threshold and the cool evening air hit her in the face.

"You really lit?" he whispered once they'd reached the bottom porch step.

Carol smirked up at him. "Not enough to need help getting home."

Daryl smiled and tightened his grip on her as they began walking down the sidewalk towards their home.

"Oh…oh…oh…" She cried. Her arms were trembling as she fought to hold herself up.

"Fuck!" he snarled.

She was clutching the bedspread in her hands as he took her.

Daryl could feel sweat dripping from the ends of his hair…trailing down his spine. His prick was buried so deep in Carol's pussy that neither of them could take it. She'd already come around him…the wetness surrounding his shaft as it moved inside her, but the hunter wasn't finished.

He stood behind his mate, his hands on her hips as he thrust. Her body felt so good and part of him didn't want their time together to end. But Daryl was lost between her thighs and knew that in minutes, maybe even seconds, it would all be over.

His heart was pounding and his chest was heaving. Each time he felt Carol's ass pressing against his groin, he let out a whine. She was soft and sexy…everything he wanted. So the minute they were behind closed doors, they'd ripped each other's clothes off. Needing to posses his mate, Daryl had positioned her near the end of the bed. She'd submitted to him, leaning forward and bracing her hands on the comforter.

Carol hadn't been able to feel her legs since her orgasm struck. She was using all her strength to stay standing as her partner loved her. Every thrust made her body shake and she couldn't help but to cry out in pain and pleasure whenever his pelvis rammed against her ass.

"Aw…baby…godammitt…ya feel so good." He was clawing at her hips and bucking faster.

Carol felt like her arms could give at any second. "Daryl!"

"Aw…fuck!" The hunter could feel himself sliding into her sex and he knew that nothing had ever felt better. Her soft, slick insides were hugging his cock and all he wanted was to come. So he thrust in and pulled back, savoring everything about her core.

"Just fuck me…" she pleaded weakly.

The muscles in his belly began to tense as he screwed her. His dick was getting harder. "Woman…" he growled.

"Deeper!" she moaned, taking his cock. "I want it deeper…"

He pushed into her softness and groaned. She was so narrow. Her pussy always got tighter after she came. "Shit Carol…"

She hardly heard him. The vibrations made her shudder and gasp. She struggled to breathe as he pushed in. Normally, she did her best to move with him…to push back when he thrust…but his grip on her body was intensifying. He was restricting her range of motion…holding her in place while he bucked.

The hunter kept their rhythm strong, making sure to sink into her each time his hips surged forward. He pulled his manhood back with sharp jerks, forcing it back into her sex before she could even take her next breath. Working to keep her legs spread, Daryl took his woman the way he wanted to.

Through the strands of sweaty hair that hung in his face, he stared down at Carol's body. His narrowed eyes followed the curve of her spine as her back arched. He loved having control…watching the way she reacted to his thrusts.

"Aw…that's it…." he muttered to himself.

Daryl could see her shoulder blades tensing as she held herself up. He licked his lips and slid through her core. That was where he belonged…inside her. He'd begun throbbing and her walls continued to squeeze him in the aftermath of her orgasm.

"Fuck…" he was going to come.

All she wanted was to give in. She wanted to collapse and let him take what he needed, but she knew he liked the angle…the slight resistance their positioning gave him. So she drew on her strength and clawed the bedspread as he stood behind her. The incredible force between her legs seemed to control her entire body.

The hunter was indulging in his woman…the heat inside her…the pressure he craved…he was addicted. He couldn't stop moving. Thrusting harder, Daryl hit the top and heard her cry out. She clenched around him and he had to cuss.

"Fuckin' christ!" He refocused on her ass and felt himself leaking.

"God!" she moaned. "Just…do it!"

His hips were working on their own, sending his cock in deeper, and deeper. "Aw!"

"Please!" she begged.

Daryl hit the top again. "Ya like that?" he snarled at her. "Ya like me fuckin' ya?"

"God yes…" Carol whined, her eyes slammed shut tight.

The hunter was riding a powerful high. "Fuck yeah!" he growled, pulling one hand away from her hips. His cock was buried in her center, moving back and forth, and before he could stop himself…he brought his hand down hard, smacking her ass.

Carol's eyes flew open as her insides fluttered around his member. Her mouth was open but she couldn't speak. More wetness was flooding her core and she realized that she was coming again.

Her body's response was so immediate that it took Daryl's breath away. He felt the slickness increase inside her the second his hand struck her flesh. His own eyes went wide when he made the connection.

"Ya fuckin' like it don't ya?"

Carol let out a broken cry as her pussy squeezed him.

"You're fuckin' comin'…godammitt!" He snarled, thrusting against her ass.

She couldn't answer. All she could do was let the sensations in her core overwhelm her. She knew her release was leaking around him.

"Shit woman…ya ain't never been this wet…" He slid himself all the way in, loving the way her walls rubbed him. "Christ…" Daryl was panting. "You're gonna take this fuckin' cock woman."

A tear was welling in the corner of her eye as she spread her legs even further apart.

"Aw…shit…yeah…baby….aw…god…like that…mhmmm…" his tongue darted out over his lips as he fucked her. Daryl had his woman wrapped around him and there was nothing else he wanted. "That's mine…" he breathed as he stared down at her body.

"You hear me?" he spat before smacking her ass again. "It's fuckin' mine!"

The lone tear rolled down Carol's cheek; she couldn't breathe.

The hunter snarled when he felt her pussy clench him. "Fuck…that's it…aw…jesus…take my dick woman…keep that pussy tight… Aw…aw…aw! That's….christ…Carol… jus…aw…aw… Awww!"

His member was swollen inside her, keeping her passage open. As he slipped quickly back and forth, Daryl felt his own release coming. He held onto her amazing body…nails digging into her hips. His head went back while his pelvis continued to collide with her ass. She was so warm, inviting…her walls were so smooth against him…the hunter was deep in his woman's sex…using her, loving her, taking her…

With sweat glistening on his chest and stomach, Daryl thrust himself into her heat. Dark hair was plastered to his brow and temples…his lids had grown heavy.

"Carol!" he whined. "Fuck…jus…jus…christ…baby…I…god…damn…fuck!"

Everything went black. The hunter's eyes slammed shut as a pained groan fell from his lips. The room disappeared…he couldn't feel the floor under his feet. A thrill moved through him that he couldn't describe. A staggering rush of pure energy traveled through his groin. He felt it in his manhood, making the shaft stiff before his pleasure finally burst from the blunt tip. Trembling in the grip of his climax, Daryl kept himself inside, spilling his release between Carol's thighs.

The hunter was weightless as he came…semen gushing from his aching cock. Gasping for air, he fought to maintain his grip on his woman's hips. It was the only thing keeping him standing. But each time his shaft spurted…each time her walls pressed in to milk him, he felt himself get weaker.

Carol's body was in shock as she let her partner come. She was tingling in the wake of her second climax and his warmth was filling her up. Her heart skipped a beat each time his member twitched inside her. On instinct, her walls squeezed his length, drawing the release from him. She wanted everything.

Daryl clawed at her skin and hissed. Even in his delirium, some part of him knew that every orgasm with Carol was different. He experienced something new each time. His chest was still heaving and the muscles in his belly were still tense. He needed a moment to process what he was feeling.

The euphoria hadn't released It's hold. The hunter's brows knit together while his heart continued to pound. Something about being with her…it cleansed him…made him better, lighter. The way his body responded to hers, and hers to his…it was enough to make him question whether or not it was real. He never knew that pleasure like theirs existed.

Safe inside his woman, Daryl let himself whine. He was in a state of pure bliss He knew the sounds he was making were pathetic, but he didn't care. "Aww…awww…Car…" His body was spent…she'd sapped him of his strength.

Her warm insides were still hugging his length. She loved the way he felt between her legs. Her back arched weakly and she moaned at the ceiling. "Baby…"

Just hearing her voice made Daryl want to take her again. She sounded tired…like she'd been through more than her body could handle. Knowing he'd done that do her only added to the hunter's pleasure. He kept his pelvis pressed against her ass and waited for his shaft to go soft.

"Fuck. Ya take it so deep woman…" He bit his bottom lip as her pussy squeezed him.

She just groaned.

"Good lord…" his cock was sore.

Carol's walls were clenching him involuntarily.

Daryl began massaging her hips. Nothing compared to the feeling of her sex all around him. "Ya like havin' it inside ya?" he breathed, pushing in just a little deeper.

A sharp, sudden cry flew from her lips.

He was slowly losing his erection but he didn't care. The hunter wanted to stay in her pussy. He liked knowing that their bodies were connected. "Christ Carol…"

"D..Daryl…" she whined.

That strained sound seemed to pull him from his stupor and he shook the damp hair out of his face. He could hear the pain in her voice. Blood gradually returned to his brain and he realized that he needed to free himself. Maintaining his grip on her hips, Daryl braced for what was coming.

"Easy now," he whispered roughly.

She swallowed hard; her arms and legs were still trembling.

Doing his best to focus, he slowly began to withdraw. Leaving her was always difficult…physically…mentally. Her passage narrowed after her climaxes, the walls trapping him inside. Whenever he managed to separate their bodies, Daryl experienced a genuine sense of loss, and this night was no exception. He pulled back carefully until Carol's core finally released him. His cock slipped from her and he snarled.

Carol eyes slammed shut as she took a staggered breath.

Panting, Daryl stared down at his member. It shone in the dark, covered in her arousal. He studied her thighs. He could see the evidence of their time together leaving slick trails down the insides of her legs. Proud of what they'd accomplished, the hunter forced himself to move.

He used what was left of his strength to grip Carol's waist and pull her limp body down onto the bed. They collapsed together, moaning and swearing…their legs shaking. Lying sprawled on top of the covers, the lovers tried to gather their thoughts.

The comforter stuck to their damp skin as they laid on their backs and groaned. "God." Carol sighed, her toes curling.

"Shit." Daryl was clutching his forehead

"I just…"

"What?" he asked without looking at her.

She licked her lips and sighed again. One delicate hand was resting lightly on her belly. She drummed her fingers, waiting for the right words. "I just don't know where it comes from. How do you do that?"

He pushed the hair back from his brow and glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. A smirk was forming on his mouth. "It's pretty simple when ya get down to it…"

Her eyes narrowed. "Not the mechanics." she said, smirking back at him. "The…" a blush was forming on her cheeks.

"The what?"

"The stamina…the…" she had to lower her gaze for a moment to get the rest of the words out. "The staying power."

Daryl took in the details of her naked body. The lines and curves…shadows and dips. "That part's simple too. I like ya. I want ya to like whatever it is we're doin'."

Carol blushed harder and rolled onto her side, turning away from him. The hunter's smile widened as he followed suit, inching closer to her. He left a little space between them, but reached out to let one hand rest on her hip. He felt her tense when he made contact.

"So that's it then?" she asked.

His fingertips trailed slowly up to her waist while he studied the line of her body. "Like I said; it's simple. When I'm inside ya…I'm just tryin' to make ya feel good. That's all."

Carol didn't know what to say. She stared silently out at the gloom and listened to the beating of her own heart.

Daryl's hand slid up higher, to her ribcage. He moved even closer to her, his eyes trained on her shoulder blades. "I like the way ya feel. I like the way it feels when ya come." he growled softly.

"I like having you inside me," she breathed, her hand reaching up to rest over his. She still couldn't face him.

"That's all I need. Jus knowin' that ya like it. That right there keeps me goin'. You wanna know why I don't come inside ya after a couple fuckin' minutes?" He shifted, getting close enough to press his body against hers…his groin brushing her ass.

Carol couldn't take it anymore. She had to see him. Rolling back over, she found herself face to face with her lover. Her heart rate sped up instantly and they stared at one another. "Why?" she whispered.

"Cuz I like it too damn much. Like watchin' ya when ya start comin' undone. I like feelin' how wet ya get…how tight ya are… Ain't tryin' to get between them legs 'n let loose 'fore ya get yours."

She was watching him so intently…the way his lips moved as he spoke, the way his eyes cut into her. She didn't even notice when her hand made its way into his long hair…slowly tugging and playing.

"I like gettin' ya off. So when I'm in that pussy…I ain't stoppin' till I feel ya come hard. Alright?" He cupped one of her breasts, massaging it gently.

Her mouth had gone dry. She tightened her grip on his hair.

"I wanna feel it, see it…I wanna fuckin' smell it. You hearin' me woman?" he growled under his breath.

She made herself nod. His legs were slowly tangling with hers. As they watched each other, Carol grew increasingly distracted by his smile. She pulled his hair lovingly, letting it twirl around her fingers. With an overwhelming sense of joy bubbling up inside her, Carol was finally forced to speak.

"What?" she asked, still mesmerized by the look on his face.

The hunter kept his eyes on hers and shook his head slowly. "Nothin'. You're just smilin'."

Carol's hand moved to the back of his neck. "Am I?"

"Yeah." he chuckled, wedging one his legs between hers.

"Kinda hard not to." she admitted.

Daryl closed the gap between them and kissed her. The lovers couldn't help but to laugh lightly into their kisses. Their stomachs brushed…the skin still slick with sweat, and Daryl's hand roamed from her breast back down to her waist.

"God…" she breathed before nipping his bottom lip.

"What?" he growled.

"I can still feel it."

"Feel what?" he paused to tug at her nipple.

"That second orgasm."

The hunter slipped his hand down her body until he was clutching at her ass. "You lookin' for another one?" he asked.

Carol reached up and ran a hand weakly through her own hair. "You saying you're up for it? Aren't you…tired?" she asked, glancing briefly at his groin.

Daryl's eyes narrowed. "I ain't gotta be hard to make your ass come."

Her heart skipped a beat; he was right. He'd proven it on more than one occasion. The thought of his tongue between her legs made her shiver, but she knew her body was spent for the time being.

"Jus say the word woman." His nails were clawing at her ass. "I'll eat that pussy till ya can't move."

A nervous chuckle burst from her lips and she moved in close, seeking shelter against his chest.

Daryl could feel her body trembling with laughter and had to smile. "Somethin' funny?"

She was still clinging gently to the back of his neck. "No…I just. Sometimes you just don't seem real."

The hunter snorted and ran his hand up and down her side. "Quit."

"Sorry. I think I'm still getting used to this."

"This?" he asked. His chin was resting on the top of her head as she curled up against his chest.

"You."

Daryl took a slow, deep breath, loving the way her hair smelled. "Well I ain't exactly used to you either."

"No?" she smiled.

"Naw."

Carol chuckled while her fingertips traced a scar on his chest. "We're getting there though."

"Maybe. It's just wild…" he sighed, a smirk on his mouth.

"It is." she laughed softly.

"Never thought you'd be the type to get loud in bed. Swear to Christ ya wind up screamin' every damn time."

Carol pushed away from his chest until she could look him in the eye. "Well I never thought a man…let alone you…would be able to make me scream."

Daryl huffed and gripped her ass. "What's that supposed to mean?"

She rolled her eyes. "That my sex life was never very satisfying and I never would've guessed that Daryl Dixon would get me into bed."

"Yeah; guess I didn't see that one comin' either." he admitted. "You satisfied now?"

Carol blushed a little as she stared at him. "Very."

"Good. Let's keep it that way." he growled playfully.

She brushed a few strands of dark hair away from his face. Lying together on top of the covers, with sweat drying on their skin, the lovers admired each other. They were naked, baring everything. Carol kept her eyes on his, and wondered what she'd done to deserve him. She had no way of knowing that the same thoughts were surfacing in the hunter's mind.

Daryl's hand roamed from her ass, up along the line of her body until he was cupping her breast again. The warmth of his touch made her breath catch for a moment. Even as he caressed her, his eyes never left her face.

"So, we're really doing this?" she asked, the smile still on her lips.

All he could do was smile back at her. "We're doin' this."

Hope you liked it - let me know what you thought! More to come with these two. Suggestions are welcome!

-Sami