Day Five
There was no news from Pamela or the marketing team yet. Checking texts and emails once more from the comfort of the sofa bed, revealed not one response. It was irritating Rick waiting for an answer even with the knowledge that not enough time passed to obtain a reply. Whether positive or negative. Especially from the likes of Pamela Milton.
With the proofs submitted for final approval last night, after showering and straightening up his wine disaster, all Rick could do was wait. Stall Lori as long as he could. And wait. It seemed he was waiting a lot in recent days. One such delay from his own lack of fruition.
Apparently, Rick slept hard once he finally quieted his mind enough to pass out. But so had his host because her door remained firmly shut, with no sounds of movement inside. That made him ponder if Michonne and he both slept very restfully because they were near. Perhaps, opening up helped them find relief. Or it could be his greatest fear. And she was avoiding him after their too cozy night on the couch.
A distraction was necessary from all the questions plaguing him. Checking the temperature back in the office would have to do. But a shift in focus was the opposite of what Glenn delivered.
"Wait! You are sharing a room with Michonne? The Michonne?"
"Not a room, more like a suite. But yeah."
"Dude! I'm so jealous." Glenn complained. "I should've got to stay behind instead of you."
"Huh, you're not even a photographer-"
"You are wasting this opportunity with a famous model."
"We had a terrible start. And… I'm scared every time I speak that I'm going to mess up the progress we've made now. She's probably tolerating me until this is done."
"No woman lets a man she doesn't like stay with her. Jackass!"
Rick contemplated this, recalling the eavesdropped conversation with her mother. She wasn't willing to share her space with a family member. A suddenly appearing and perhaps uninvited one but still a relative. And yet she invited him in. A man that she'd just days ago, slammed the very same door of said suite in his face.
Knowing any extra details about their evolution would only rile Glenn up even more. Rick decided to keep them to himself for now. Especially the charged atmosphere last night because of the drinking. "She's just… It's just that we had to get this photoshoot done. That's all it is."
"Dude! You are falling for her. Aren't you?"
"Glenn!" Rick hissed just as sudden footsteps from the bedroom alerted him.
The volume of his friend's voice projected from the phone as though it were in speaker mode. "Breathtaking. You think I didn't hear you the other day."
"Shit." Rick scrambled to press end just as the door opened and a rejuvenated Michonne blissfully yawned and stretched.
"No news, I'm guessing." she thankfully assumed he was flustered about the job. And he slid 'Do not disturb' mode on his device just before Glenn's callback could attempt to expose his unstated reality. He was in fact falling for Michonne. Had been from day one. But he needed to focus because Christmas was a couple days away and they'd go back to their separate lives.
"Nope. Not yet. And I've been checking for a while."
"I'm confident an answer will come through soon."
"Yeah, hopefully."
It would've been an awkward silence, but the way Michonne looked, just up from bed, took Rick's breath away. It could've been the rays of sun surrounding her, but she looked ethereal. Her coyness making her cuter by the second.
Then a thought occurred to Rick. There was nothing but time on their hands. And no sense in sitting around twiddling his thumbs. He wanted to be proactive with their limited time. No more chance encounters on this trip at least. Getting off the sleeper sofa to address Michonne properly would display him putting his best foot forward. Rick cast off the sheets, got up and walked a little closer towards her.
"Wanna go grab something to eat? Together?"
The lowering of radiant brown eyes made Rick suddenly remember his state of undress. Under the covers, last night it became too warm. He didn't want to adjust the thermostat and risk Michonne being cold because of him. Sleeping without his T-shirt was the best option. Now, the prettiest brown eyes darkened tracking the contours of his toned chest and strong arms. His pajama pants hung low exposing his v-lines for her distinct pleasure.
Michonne casually crossed her arms over her chest while leaning in the threshold. "I could eat." she impishly smirked, taking one more salacious look at his physique so he heated further.
"Good. I'll get ready and wait for you out here."
"Okay." Michonne surveyed him again then breathed as though she needed to cool off. While she went back into her room, Rick snickered to himself. This day was looking promising.
Through the provincial village of Grindelwald, Rick and Michonne casually strolled. A return to the hotel was the planned destination but picturesque shoppes and markets continued to catch their eye. It had been hours since they cozied in a booth against frosted windows to share a hearty meal of pastetli, a traditional Swiss meat pie. The tasty recommendation from the waiter in a quaint restaurant once they informed him, they'd not eaten breakfast.
Over lunch, the pair admitted that this year's holiday spirit originally felt lacking from their individual troubles. But the charming atmosphere of Switzerland, inspired enthusiasm. Rick still hoped he'd get to spend Christmas with Carl as planned. And Michonne assured him it would happen, he just had to have a little faith. They both agreed to silence their phones for a bit in hopes of turning their brains off. But Michonne suggested a video call to his son for an extra pick me up.
Quickly, Rick informed Lori that he was awaiting a response from work and that he'd let her know the verdict as soon as he heard. Luckily, this satisfied her, and she handed Carl the phone without much strife on her face. Switching to sit on Michonne's side of the booth, Rick once again included her. She whispered to the cherub-faced boy that they'd just come back from getting his message to Santa. Watching his freckled face light up with joy bolstered not only his father's mood but hers as well. Pivoting the camera to face outside, Michonne delighted the boy with views of abundant snow. The adults tittered when he asked his father to bring some home for him.
Walking for digestion made the most sense, Rick and Michonne rationalized once they waved their goodbyes to Carl. Rick paid the check, and they were off to wander the snowy footpaths. While regaling Rick with chaotic tales of holidays past, Michonne glowingly smiled. She'd always looked forward to holidays with her large family. Maintaining connections and togetherness once they grew up and their lives expanded with each generation became the main thing she most looked forward to. And the food! But this holiday season, her family was willing to forgo the home cooked meal to travel here to support her. It secretly meant so much to her, she revealed to her companion.
Passing a window with sweets displayed, Rick suggested they venture inside. He grinned as Michonne's eyes bounced from delicious treat after treat. The menu overwhelming her, so she pointed to everything that suddenly called to her. When her mouth watered gazing at one option, Rick hastily ordered it surprising her. But she found a table for two, giddily waiting for him to carry the large mug of thick hot chocolate topped with whipped cream to her. Tucking in the aerated fluff were mailanderli's, famous Swiss milano cookies drizzled with caramel sauce. Michonne was ready to dig in but noticed Rick only retrieved one spoon. She of course told him to get another because she would share. Then she swiftly blamed it on the spirit of the holiday, and they chuckled digging in.
Nostalgic stories of much smaller and quieter holidays were freely offered by Rick. His family was small, but he always enjoyed the hectic charm when visiting one of his best friends, Aaron's home. Conversation flowed easily and entertained. But Rick and Michonne weren't ready to admit to one another that they liked the easygoing company.
Down slushy trails they wandered in the comfort of being alone, together. They separately wondered if there was some magic at play. And if so, how much longer would it last if they continued to write it off. The miraculous holiday shove that worked its way into them over the last few days would cease to exist soon. And they each considered whether it was too much to ask for an extension when they'd started off, trying to part.
Their pleasurable journey had taken them to what they realized was the back entrance to the hotel. The chill in the air reddened their cheeks and froze their gloved fingertips. Rick decided to test the backdoors and blessedly found them open. Michonne raced in and he followed giggling at their fortune while stomping snow from their boots. While rubbing their hands together for warmth, they realized they were located in the conference wing.
Melodic organ music played through the walls before the doors opened from a ballroom. It appeared a wedding had just taken place because the bridal party spilled into the corridor. Rick and Michonne stood to the side not wanting to disrupt the ending ceremony yet smiled witnessing the happy occasion.
Last to exit were the bride and groom, of course. Their friends and family clapped and shouted congratulations along with well wishes as they beamed. Waiting for a chance to graciously slip by, Rick and Michonne patiently stood to the side, but the bride's face lit up with recognition.
"Oh my god! You're Michonne!"
Nodding conformation, Michonne warmly smiled. "Congratulations. You make a beautiful bride."
The woman all dressed in white with an American accent rushed over while her new husband promptly followed. "Seeing you on my special day, makes it even more special."
"Thank you. We are sorry we got in the way when we ducked in from the cold. We were headed to the main side of the hotel."
"You are staying here? Then you should join us."
"Yes, you would be a welcomed guest at our reception." The husband with a German accent offered while his wife nodded enthusiastically.
"No, I couldn't. I don't want to distract from your big day."
"You wouldn't."
"I'm not dressed properly." Michonne tried to gracefully release them from the obligation, gesturing to her current winter outfit while the wedding party and guests donned black tie and gowns.
"You are a famous model. Anything you wear would absolutely be stylish. You must come. I won't take 'no' for an answer." The young woman begged while gently grasping Michonne's hands.
The whole time Rick stood in amusement watching Michonne try to weasel her way out of the invitation. When she looked to him for assistance, she noticed his impish grin. Squinting her eyes at him as harshly as she could made him struggle to hide his chuckle. Their wordless discussion induced the newlyweds to pivot to him, mistaking the relationship.
"Oh no, you don't have to worry. Your boyfriend can of course attend too."
"We are not-" they both countered a bit too quickly and loudly then blushed awkwardly.
"Okay." the bride and groom smirked at one another knowingly. "Well, Michonne and her plus one…"
Rick blanched and started to shake his head in decline.
"Actually, you two are in luck. This is Rick Grimes. A famous photographer. He's shot models and other celebrities around the world. Maybe he could take some pictures for you." Michonne grinned wickedly making him snort while the couple looked at each other with possibility.
"With all the expenses for a ceremony in Switzerland, we could only afford my cousin. He's an amateur photographer and doing his best. Maybe you would be willing to capture just a few images for us?" the bride pouted with puppy dog eyes.
"Of course, he would. And all for free." Michonne grinned.
Rick spoke through smiling yet gritted teeth. "Just give me a few minutes to grab my camera."
Then an idea struck him. "And Michonne can change into whatever fancy dress I'm sure she's packed. I bet… she'll even be willing to take pictures with all the guests."
Michonne rolled her lips inwards to keep her laughter contained. She reached over to pinch Rick but he swiftly side stepped. But the newlyweds beamed regardless.
"Thank you both. We will see you in the grand ballroom."
"Okay."
Michonne and Rick stood with smiles plastered on their faces as the bride and groom excitedly rejoined their wedding party, walking to the reception. Once the elated party departed, they turned to one another.
"This was supposed to be my day off. And now I have to take portraits."
Michonne chortled at his playful exasperation. "Did you think I was going to get all gussied up while you relaxed in my suite?"
"It would've been nice." Rick chuckled following Michonne as she started towards the main side of the hotel, in search of the elevators.
"The only thing you would've done while I was gone, was sit around constantly checking your email and texts. If you are stuck in Switzerland, you should seek a little enjoyment."
"I'll have you know. I was already having a great time." he pressed the call button but still caught Michonne's appreciative blush.
When the doors slid open, he gestured for her to enter first. Once he joined her, he stood closely. They were each worried about their time ending soon but grinned knowing they now had an excuse to further it. But the confines of the cab influenced a renewed sensation. Rick stood too near and Michonne could hear his exhales increase as he gazed over at her. An unmistakable feeling of lust crept up and Michonne needed to stop herself from locking eyes with him.
"I have to wear a fancy dress. What will you wear?" she muttered breathlessly just as the doors mercifully opened.
It wasn't like Rick had not seen Michonne in numerous styles of dress over the last few days and throughout many forms of media. But he couldn't wait to see whatever she would drape her delectable body in. Whatever it was he hoped it hugged her curves. The very curves that sauntered away putting him in a trancelike state.
"Rick…"
Using a hand, Michonne held the elevator door open after she was out of the cabin. Her escort was in some sort of optical stupor. One that appeared to be angled right in the place her ample behind just occupied.
"Rick, are you planning on staying on the elevator." she chuckled causing him to skip off before the doors tried to close again.
"Were you saying something else?"
"I was asking what you'll wear." Michonne remained in place to keep him focused, wanting an actual answer this time.
"No tuxes or ties in my suitcase." they snickered, relieving some of the flirtatious tension.
"But I think I packed a cream button up. Do you think black jeans and cowboy boots will be okay?"
"It will have to do for my plus one."
"Really, I think with you on my arm, I could wear a paper bag. And no one would notice."
"Careful Richard or I may start to think you're buttering me up for something again." Michonne deflected his compliment then walked down the hall towards her suite.
Rick followed, noting how his full first name didn't sound half bad coming from her lips now. "This is a really sweet thing you are doing for the newlyweds."
"It's noth-" Michonne stopped her statement suddenly, and they amusedly laughed. "It seems you're growing on me Grimes."
Tapping her keycard, Michonne unlocked the door. Rick held it open for her entrance first then went inside too.
"It won't take me long to wash up, change clothes and grab my camera equipment bag."
"Umm… maybe you should go ahead down and snap a few pictures of the wedding party before the full festivities begin. That way you can enjoy the night knowing that's complete. Because it's going to take me a bit longer to get ready."
"Okay. Sounds good."
"I'll meet you down there."
Rick nodded observing Michonne saunter her way into the bedroom. He smiled shyly now thankful for the invitation from the bride and groom. The day had been promising indeed but the night was looking even better.
The ballroom was beautifully decorated for a Christmas wedding. Simplistic but alluring cream draping covered the walls. The rectangular, rustic wooden tables were lined with a single leafy garland but elegant place settings and stemware awaited dinner service. Lit candles floated in large glass jars to illuminate the dimmed romantic atmosphere. It made for an easy backdrop while Rick volunteered his services. He chuckled to himself remarking on how Michonne roped him into the charity work, something she relished in herself. But another task befell him.
Assuring the peeved cousin had somehow become Rick's responsibility while they simultaneously took pictures of the wedding party. He even gave the young man some pointers for use during the reception and beyond. The novice seemed to take the advice well. But he was probably pleased knowing he'd have his job back for the party portion of the event.
Standing outside the ballroom, Rick fidgeted incessantly. Being an unexpected and solo guest at a party was awkward especially when you weren't the chosen invitee. No one tried to make Rick feel uncomfortable or unwelcome. Quite the opposite. Smiling passersby greeted and complimented him but it made him even more uneasy. It was likely the unexpected environment coupled with his newly acquired clothing that further put Rick out of his element. He was used to being the voyeur not the viewed.
Rick had to admit he was thankful Michonne would be accompanying him. Her presence, once their rapport developed, had become a balm to soothe all his worries away. Well, mostly. Now that he managed to make some headway, their time today expanded his optimism. He needed to get home in time for Christmas but a part of him wished he could stay here longer. The absence of Michonne in his world would definitely be noticed. With a deep exhale, Rick pondered how or if he should request an additional time. And whether Michonne, a famous model, would want to would she think he'd lost his damn mind suggesting it.
Rick didn't have much time to think because from down the hall, the twinkle of holiday lights seemed to reflect anew. But nothing could compare to the vision that glided only to him. His eyes bouncing around every inch committing the vision to memory.
As if floating on a cloud, Michonne drifted angelically. Gold high-heeled sandals elongated her silky-smooth legs through the center split of her dress's skirts. While off the shoulders to highlight delectable brown skin, the pale blue gown's form fitting design silhouetted Michonne's curvaceous body. Gold and silver detailing swirled around the deep plunge of a bandeau, impossibly holding the copious swell of her mouth watering bosom.
Rick was already overcome but none more than when he gazed at Michonne's lovely face. The choice she made to shave her head displayed her exquisite perfection. Her high cheekbones and jawline were no doubt key in her career. But the soft feminine shape of her nose and lips were his second favorites.
Eyeliner and mascara detailed her almond shaped, expression filled eyes. Michonne could relay so many messages with them. Her general mood and intention provided effortlessly because he'd studied it over their time together. It was key to strengthening their wordless connection. A connection Rick knew he was fortunate to have.
A shy smile overtook his face as he hastily walked to meet her halfway. They both teasingly grinned once near because their cheeks refused to lower.
"You are-"
Michonne cut him off. "Wait, let me give you a little spin."
And when she did, Rick bit his lip hard. The roundness of her ample behind protruded beyond his guesses. The fishtail design of the skirt amplifying all the right curves.
"Stunning." was the only word he could get out without blubbering every adjective he knew for beautiful. But Michonne blushed sweetly then turned the tables.
She motioned to Rick, astounded because he was not wearing a shirt, jeans and cowboy boots as discussed. Tan dress shoes adorned his feet. A peek at his light chest hair was granted through the undone buttons at the collar of a dark blue, gingham dress shirt. The grayish-blue suit looked as though it was tailored especially to exhibit his fitness. As well as the sexy curve of his legs. The complimenting color combination transformed the hue of his eyes. His orbs glinted in tones of dusty, stone and steel blue.
"I'm glad I did all this. Because you are quite handsome."
Rick grew gratifyingly bashful from her compliment. "You had your hands full. Where'd you get the threads?"
"I ended up running into Magna. I told her about my plus one status." Michonne amusedly shook her head at his self-deprecation before he continued.
"She was supervising the loading of some of the wardrobe on to a truck. And she remembered they'd sent some men's suits that she considered styling you in."
Rick looked down modestly. "She guessed right on my sizing."
"That she did." Michonne lasciviously eyed him again, making Rick self-consciously teeter his weight from one leg to the other. His humility was quite attractive because he was a very, very good-looking man. But he behaved contrary to that fact.
"Well, she knew I'd have to try a little harder if I was to accompany such an sophisticated beauty tonight. I mean, Michonne… you are captivating."
They stood there enjoying the openly flirtatious energy until other guests of the wedding walked by reminding them of their purpose for getting all dolled up in the first place.
"I know you are a very capable woman. But it would be my honor to walk you into the ballroom." Rick moved in closer, lifting his arm for her to hold.
"I guess." Michonne jovially quipped while wrapping her arm around his.
As he ushered her to the reception, he snickered at her ability to skip over his gallant efforts with ease. And Michonne raised an eyebrow yet grinned.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing, it's just me."
Entering the ballroom, Rick took them directly to the table they were assigned to sit at. He'd previously inquired with an attendant when he arrived to take pictures. He pulled out Michonne's seat and helped her get comfortable before he pulled his chair close to hers.
"You didn't have to do this."
"I know but I wanted to." Rick grinned. "And besides, I owed you."
"You still do."
"Yeah." he simpered at her dreamily as thoughts of other ways he could pay her back jostled to mind. But more opportunities to just see her in the future sounded just as appeasing.
"Sorry to interrupt but could we get a picture with you Michonne?" a group of young ladies excitedly hovered with cellphones and expectations in hand.
"You can each give me your phones and I'll take a couple pictures." Rick offered as Michonne stood smiling.
Pose after pose. Chat after chat, Michonne was gracious to every guest wanting a moment with her. But the revelers did their parts to embrace the pair as well. Supplying them with drinks and appetizers until dinner would be served. After scheduled wedding traditions, guests attempted to pull both of them onto the dance floor but only Michonne accepted. While she shimmied with the elated bride and her bridesmaids, Rick enjoyably watched from their table, lifting his camera to steal a few snaps.
A greying older man sat at their table, leaned over." Your girlfriend is quite lovely."
Of course, Rick should've corrected the older gentleman, but he nodded satisfyingly. The possibility emboldened him. "She is."
"If I were a younger and single man, I'd give you a run for your money." Rick snickered mirthfully. "That's not the type of woman you leave on the market for too long."
"No, she isn't."
The man smiled having dispersed his sage advice then turned back to his wife kissing her temple. The older woman closed her eyes appreciating the affection even as she carried on her own conversation. Observing the comfortable bliss of the older couple initiated new prospects for Rick. When he looked back to the dance floor, Michonne grinned, observing him in deep thought, with camera in hand. She casually glided through the crowd ambling to retake her seat with an exhausted huff.
"You know… you told me about your family and friends. Marriage and divorce. All about Carl." She smiled warmly. "But you never told me how you decided to become a photographer."
"Not much to tell. It fell into my lap." Michonne was even more intrigued, giving her undivided attention to Rick so he obliged her with more detail.
"In school, I tried out for sports. All of them. But I sucked." he chuckled so his eyes crinkled charmingly.
"I was checking out the other extracurricular activities my middle school offered. Math and science clubs sounded like extra work. Then there were all these forms of the arts. I didn't think I was suitable for those either, but the newspaper needed a photographer. So, I signed up. The teacher that oversaw everything saw my photos and said she thought I had an eye. After that, I got tasked with all sorts of assignments. It just kinda grew from there."
Michonne smiled happy to know how he'd come to master the craft that brought them together. But Rick pivoted with his own interest.
"I never asked but, what's yours?"
"What's my what?"
"Well, you know I wanted to open a gallery. What's your dream field?"
"What makes you think this isn't it?"
"I'm sorry, I-"
Michonne giggled, throwing him off guard. "I must admit I like when you apologize."
Rick reddened while she proceeded. "I'm surprised you even thought to ask what my dream is."
"Why?"
"Most people assume being a famous fashion model is all a girl could ever dream of."
"Well, I could tell that you are much more than just a… gorgeous face."
Rick enjoyed finding ways to make Michonne revert to her naturally shy and coy manner. She girlishly tugged at the material forming the edges of her dress' split while answering.
"While modeling took off, I continued to secretly obtain a degree in film studies and production. I've moonlighted as an assistant to a couple tv and film executives. Getting practice in pre and postproduction with a focus on story development. I want to deliver stories that matter and have never been seen to the masses. Use art to restructure the world for the better." Michonne rattled off displaying her true fervid objective.
"Next time, you should follow your passion. I love the way your face lights up when you speak about it."
Michonne coquettishly smiled. "I'm still working my way up to it."
"Well, while you wait. Would you like to dance?"
"I would."
Michonne took Rick's proffered hand, and he helped her to stand. An upbeat song played while they made their way to the dance floor. Rick was ready to embarrass himself with attempts at a two-step while Michonne showed out. But just as they maneuvered to the parquet, the DJ abruptly switched up the mood. Through the speakers Etta James' melodic voice crooned her romantic masterpiece, At Last. Couples including the bride and groom embraced and began a slow waltz.
Michonne was inexplicably nervous wondering if they should sit this one out. But as Rick confidently came nearer, her chest rose and fell. He placed one hand on her waist pulling her body flush with his. He raised the other hand in the air and waited for her fingers to tentatively clasp them. Placing a hand on his shoulder and the other hand in his, Michonne waited to be led.
But Rick didn't step in any given pattern. He swayed them back and forth until Michonne's heart slowed. Their hurried breathing eased into a relaxed synchronization. Together, they found a natural rhythm. The dance floor was full, but this connection was intimate.
Rick sighed serenely when Michonne rested her head on his shoulder. He looked down noticing her eyes were peacefully closed. The trust she bestowed on him in these gentle moments told him what he would've missed had he continued to see her as the problem. Her delicacy was waiting for someone who would be honored to safeguard it. And he wanted to prolong this feeling as long as he could. But he was scared that the clock would strike midnight, and it would all be over too soon.
With a slice of buttercream cake in each hand, Rick walked Michonne back to her suite. They'd stayed much longer at reception than either anticipated. Eating, socializing and dancing off the cocktails they consumed made for an excellent evening. But now as they walked side by side, Michonne's hand swung nearby. Rick longed to take it in his so badly. If it wasn't for the fact, he carried Michonne's desserts he may have chanced it.
He was still anxious about crossing the line and wrecking everything. The same line he nearly crossed while Michonne's head was again on his shoulder for a second slow dance. Her low haircut did not allow him a stealthy way to plant a concealed kiss against her tresses. That was the one moment Rick missed her locs. But he still found satisfaction in placing his chin against her head as they swayed.
When they arrived in the suite, they both found that they weren't as tired as they assumed they would be. "I'm going to eat both of these slices of cake while watching a movie."
Rick chuckled at her voracious sweet tooth. "I'm good for a movie."
"You sure? I can go in my room if-"
"Naw, I got plenty sleep thanks to you. I'm just gonna wash up and throw on my pajamas. Meet you back on the sofa?"
"Yeah." Michonne coquettishly agreed, backing into her bedroom.
Before either of them knew it, they were freshly bathed, in pajamas and comfy on the sofa. With the remote in hand, Rick surfed while Michonne moaned through each chew. She offered to share a bite or two and Rick happily ate from her extended spoon, needing to satisfy his growing hunger. Hearing her sweetly sounded expressions was going to be the death of him.
He attempted to focus on scrolling through channels. With limited English titles, they deliberated on what was available to watch. But Rick passed something familiar with a flash of zombies.
"Wait, go back."
"To Dawn of the Dead?"
"Yeah. Oh, if it's not okay with you." Michonne looked at him with genuine concern that he may be totally adverse.
"You like horror?"
"Love it."
Rick grinned. "I do too. I thought you would've shot this down. That's why I kept going."
"Well, you've been wrong a lot on this trip." Michonne laughed after eating her last spoonful and sitting her empty plate on the end table.
"Snuggled up on the couch, watching a scary movie is my type of night in."
"Mine too." Rick simpered at Michonne. She felt herself slipping under some seductive spell that made her body tingle. She turned back towards the television for a much-needed distraction.
"Only thing… it's in German."
"I know this film pretty well. I can translate for you."
Michonne giggled amusedly. "I know it well also. And as amusing as it would be to see if our memories are in sync, let's check for subtitles."
"Good idea." Rick snickered when she swiped the remote and searched for the language options.
"Found them." Michonne grinned and attempted to get comfy. She lifted her feet onto the cushions but slightly winced.
"What's the matter?" Rick looked at her apprehensively.
"All that dancing in high heels. My feet are sore."
"Give them to me."
"Really?"
"Yeah, I can rub them for you."
Michonne started to lift her feet but paused. "Didn't figure you'd be into feet."
Rick snickered, hoisting her feet onto his lap. "Do you want the foot rub or not?"
"That wasn't an answer. But I do." she smirked then watched him tenderly work the tissues of her feet.
Her body relaxed with each gentle squeeze, so she leaned back. Now this was something Michonne could get used to, she thought while Rick patiently cared for her in such a simple but loving way. When he glanced at her, a timidness bubbled up and she pivoted her attention to the movie.
It was at the part where a team ventures out to rescue Nicole and procure guns from Andy's Gun Shop. And Michonne rose her clinched fists to her chest. Having seen the movie countless times hadn't made her less frightened. Because when the survivors hastily climbed the steps of the mall with the dead hot on their trail, she snatched her feet away from Rick suddenly, tightening her limbs to her body. Her jaw clinched from worry about the characters on screen fighting for their lives.
"Run!" she shouted, and Rick chuckled.
"What?" Michonne addressed his amused grin with a squint of her eyes.
"Nothing. Just didn't expect you to be afraid. Or for you to yell at the characters. You know they can't hear you, right?" he snickered, and she stuck her tongue out at him. But onscreen, the dead chased the living to the elevators. Nearly grabbing them before the doors closed, making Michonne screech, covering her eyes.
"Come here."
Rick reached out to Michonne and gently pulled her to press against him. He figured she'd resist but instead she quickly moved into his side allowing him to wrap a comforting arm around her. When she later jumped at the chainsaw accident scene, he squeezed her tighter still. Their bodies pressed firmly together so he could gaze down at her. His eyes infatuatedly traced the delicate curve of her eyes, perfect button nose and full heart shaped lips. But more than anything he was enjoying this softer, vulnerable side of her. He wanted to protect her. And before Rick could fully think of what he was doing, he leaned over and pressed his lips to her forehead.
The soft caress of lips to Michonne's skin caught her off guard. Not because it was unexpected, which it was. But because it was natural and comforting. Easy and sweet. A simple gesture of genuine care, letting her know he was there for her.
When dreamily looking at Rick, Michonne could tell he was holding his breath awaiting her reaction. More than likely, he expected a negative one which made her grin. Her optimistic expression was enough to bolster Rick's confidence and he began to smile as well.
Slowly, they turned to one another. Their breaths synced even with their hearts racing rapidly. Licking his lips, Rick's eyes dropped to Michonne's that partially opened. The shouts from the television died away so their eager inhales dominated the suite. Leaning inch by inch closer, the pair moved sluggishly but excitedly towards one another. Their heads pivoting to make for easy access.
'Knock'
'Knock'
'Knock'
Rick and Michonne paused but didn't jump apart. Instead, they turned their heads to the door then back to one another. Questioning surprise in both their eyes. Maybe, it was being cut off right before their lips made contact or because they were watching a scary movie, but they were put on high alert. Rick looked at his wristwatch incredulously.
"It's just after midnight, who could that be?"
AN~~: Happy Kwanzaa! Happy Hanukkah! Happy New Year! Hopefully 2025 provides you and your families with peace, money and health. In whatever order you prefer lol I'm working on the next two chapters. Perhaps an epilogue will be in order too. Click to favorite and follow for updates. And let me know how this holiday trope filled fic has turned out lol Here's to keeping Richonne Alive!