A/N~~~* *happy tears* I'm truly in awe at the responses from you all. This is now my highest reviewed story & please keep it coming. I've been writing & editing every moment I can get. I still can't believe I originally thought Hey let me write a quick, messy ass story contrary to the neat & tidy way I usually portray Richonne. & apparently you guys love it too lol So thank you for the abundant love and appreciation in the form of follows, favs & reviews. & everyone sharing it… *happy tears again & a hug*
I see a lot of you are enjoying the Sasha/Glenn ship *giggle* Don't get me wrong, I used to enjoy Gleggie. & I liked the short-lived Sasha & Abe relationship, even with that horrid Rosita breakup. But it's fun to imagine Glenn & Sasha getting… better partners. Pics of Sonequa & Steven on red carpets, provided inspo also. If only Glenn wouldn't held out lol Anyone interested in another story I wrote that includes that pairing, check out Within the Canyon.
& remember me talking about research lol I was trying to figure out what kind of flower Rick offered Michonne during Family Fun Day. I've tried a few ways to figure it out to no avail. I know it's ridiculous but if anyone's a horticulturist, please let me know lol I used viburnums in the last chapter since it was the closest, I could figure. And it reminded me of vibranium and therefore Okoye.
But enough of my rambling, let's get back to King County!
~~~20~~~
'So I guess I uh… I'll be going now.'
'Yeah, I can see that.' A woman chuckled anxiously. 'Go. Come on.'
'I love you.' The man solemnly replied.
Rick drowsily heard distant voices echoing while his eyes remained closed. There was a heat he welcomed against his side, rousing him. Slowly opening his eyes because he wanted reassurance that the reason for the warmth wasn't a dream. He smiled seeing the beauty comfortably nuzzled against him.
Michonne had also dozed off, and Rick relished in getting to watch her resting peacefully. He barely moved for fear of waking her. Their limbs were intertwined, and he loved all the skin-to-skin contact. It fortified him.
She was giving in to this. To them.
Earlier, they prepared a dinner of one pot spaghetti with a colorful garden salad on the side. At the table they'd defiled, they ate and cheerfully conversed. Then Michonne suggested they walk off the meal with a short property tour since it was already dark out.
Walking hand in hand to the barn, Rick regaled her with more tales of his life. Pointing out the far corners of the property where he and his childhood best friend would shoot cans for practice. Shane was always better at it, but Rick easily bested him when they went to the racetrack. While riding shotgun, Shane would nearly piss himself when Rick stepped on the gas. But his driving skills assured they'd always win their races.
Michonne shared some of her own stories too. Such as her indecision regarding multiple fields for her major. Creative writing, computer science and art history had her student advisor's head spinning. Ultimately, when she wanted to return to writing, the woman held an intervention to make her lock in on one. And she threw the woman for another loop locking in on business management.
But Rick wanted something juicer, so she told him about being busted sneaking in from a party. Her former best friend, Jocelyn, talked her into attending without permission. They'd had a ball and departed with damp clothing that clung to them from dancing exuberantly for hours. Stealthily or so she thought, Michonne climbed through her bedroom window to find her father waiting. But the experience was worth the lecture and grounding in the end, she mused. And Rick smiled listening, knowing he too brought the rule-breaking version of her out.
Fondly talking about the heydays also reminded Rick of his forgotten secret hiding space. Prying open a loose panel on the barn's back wall, he reached into the dark and dusty space. Michonne waited on bated breath for whatever treasure he was in search of. Rick pulled hard but inexplicably his arm was yanked deeper in. His eyes bulged open and Michonne immediately sprang into action. Wordlessly grabbing him ready to fight whatever had a hold. But Rick snickered and easily revealed a mason jar.
"Sorry." he laughed when Michonne realized his joke and started to playfully whack him.
"You scared me!"
"I'm sorry. But I'm glad you jumped in to save me without a question."
Rick weaved to dodge her next hit, but it still landed. Michonne was much faster than he estimated. Running around the barn like two school children, they played and laughed. Rick would scoop Michonne into his arms, so she would have to wiggle to get free. And they'd start all over again, enjoying the open space and the freedom to be silly without judgement.
Eventually, they grew tired and wanted to check out the spoils of war. The obnoxiously strong smell of homemade liquor wafted into the air when Rick pried the old, rusty mason jar's lid open. They looked at one another with skepticism as to the drinkability of the concoction. Ultimately, deciding to take a risk. After all, it seems to be the theme of their ongoing liaison.
On Rick's homes Verdana, they sat with a crochet blanket he retrieved from the linen closet. They'd taken swift sips of moonshine, promptly coughed, scrunched their faces in disgust and laughed before doing it once more. Then Rick boyishly sighed when Michonne snuggled against him on the porch swing.
The ruminations of nature pleasantly filled the rural atmosphere. The bug zapper nearby conducted some light work on pests. But the male crickets conducted their stridulation to attract mates. Thankfully the clear sky allowed them to gaze at the twinkling stars beyond it, while alone together. Moments like this made every challenge Rick faced in life feel well worth it.
When he comfortably took Michonne's hand now, she didn't resist. Allowing him to pull her hand to his lips, Rick kissed it tenderly. They didn't need to speak. Theirs was a connection that needed no words to exist. And when Michonne glanced up at him with her eyes full of wonder at the possibilities, he wanted to tell her it was true, right then.
It could be like this was on the tip of his tongue, but he was scared of running her off. Instead, he settled for her fingers gently playing in his long curls while he pressed his lips firmly to her forehead. He could only hope the message sunk in.
But currently, Rick watched what he assumed to be the end of the movie. Winston was leaving to attend medical school because Stella was reluctant to take a real chance on them for varying reasons. A May- December romance with differing levels of financial status as well as alarm about outside opinions were at the top of her list. During Winston's melancholy cab ride to the airport, Rick distracted himself with a quick glance at his surroundings. Avoiding any parallels in the film that made him increasingly anxious.
He was glad that he'd decided to update his bedroom when he moved back in during the divorce. If not, Michonne would have walked into a teen boys bedroom filled with posters of Jennifer Love Hewitt, Christina Applegate and Lark Voorhies. Atlanta Braves memorabilia and various bottles of musk used to line his dresser and computer desk.
But the one thing Rick was grateful he hadn't upgraded was the full bed. The size made nuzzling a given. He and Michonne agreed on making the most of this time together, therefore staying up late and rising early made the most sense. And the decision was made about what would be watched from the comfort of his bed. The movie Sasha was referencing during her departure, Rick found on a streaming service. After gathering snacks in the kitchen, they tipsily giggled their way up the u-shaped staircase.
Michonne, more relaxed than ever, walked in from the en-suite after a quick wash up to dress right in front of Rick. She had to scamper out of his clutches to stick to the game plan. Rick exaggeratedly bemoaned but didn't miss a second of her dropping her towel to slip the satin pajama short set he'd gifted on her glorious, nude body. He opted for boxers alone after gaining his faculties to wash up himself.
Replaying the magical day in his head meant Rick couldn't help but risk a touch of the M necklacedraped around Michonne's delicate neck. He was pleased that she kept a piece of him, wearing it all the time. But her eyes lightly fluttered at his soft contact, and he held his breath. Then she peacefully sighed and adjusted herself, moving in closer still. Her head rested on his chest but after a moment, she gradually opened her eyes. Rick began to caress her while grinning because he'd been star gazing.
"We missed the end of the movie." Michonne groggily stated as she stretched while the credits rolled.
"Actually, I woke back up just in time to catch it." Rick smiled thinking about the ending airport scene. He recalled Sasha's earlier joke, understanding it better now. He was thrilled with the fact that he was revitalizing Michonne's life so much so that even her best friend had to admit it.
"You should've woken me up. But I'm glad you saw it. What did you think?"
"It was good. You said Terry McMillan has other books that were adapted into film?"
"Yes, Disappearing Acts. And Waiting to Exhale. Which I can't believe you've never seen."
"Did you ever think, I didn't just so there was something for you to introduce me to." he winked.
"Uh huh, sure." Michonne chuckled then abruptly covered her mouth.
"You, okay?" Rick adjusted to look at her with concern.
"I'm fine. But… morning breath."
Rick relaxed and chortled. "I wouldn't call three AM morning but you're fine. I haven't smelled anything the whole time I've been watching you. But-"
He halfheartedly moved away, stretching over to the bedside dresser. From the small bowl of snacks they'd carried upstairs, he claimed an apple. He passed the fruit to Michonne who smiled amusedly at his choice of breath freshener. Taking a bite, she tittered as the sweet juice spilled from her mouth. While she chewed, Rick used his fingers to gather the liquid. Sticking his fingers into his mouth to clean them.
"The whole time. Don't think I missed the part about you watching me sleep." Michonne blinked rapidly so her eyelashes fluttered.
Somehow in the darkened room, she could still see that Rick turned red. He grabbed the apple of the same color from her hand, taking his own large bite in playful avoidance of his embarrassment at telling on himself.
"This is good." he mumbled with a full mouth before Michonne chuckled and snatched the fruit back for a second bite.
Again, juice rolled down her chin making her snicker more. Rick speedily leaned in and sucking the juice from her skin as an excuse to get his lips on her. But he wasn't quick enough to catch a drop that landed on her chest. And he deftly followed it using his tongue to lap up the sticky sweetness.
Michonne was no longer preoccupied with the freshness of her breath. She was tantalized by the feel of Rick's soft lips. He charted a path up her neck, over her chin until he reached her lips. Sucking them under the guise of cleansing, he continued until Michonne returned his affections.
While Rick's hands cradled her face, Michonne tried to sit the apple down. She needed to get her greedy hands into his curls. She loved the feel of them between her fingers and the way Rick responded when she tugged at them. On his dresser, there were a couple pictures of him over the years. Including one of him with a tapered cut. The look intrigued her while confirming he could in fact pull it off like she once told him. But for now, she dropped the apple, and it thudded on the floor then rolled away. But it didn't matter, Michonne needed Rick in the worst way.
He lightly chuckled at her sudden hedonistic flare after she'd been the one evading his sexual advances not long ago. Yet he just as quickly sobered when she locked her starved eyes on him while sitting back on her feet to unbutton her top. Her dark chocolate breasts shined from the glow of the television making his mouth water. But when Michonne swiftly shimmied out of her shorts, he matched her energy, pulling his boxers off.
When his length sprang free, Michonne was overcome and climbed onto his lap. Her hand grasping his thick and heavy cock while going back in for a scorching kiss. She wanted him so much. She couldn't wait another minute and promptly lined him up for entry. Gliding his thumping dick inside to expand her, they gasped into each other's mouths.
Michonne's tongue danced in Rick's mouth as she maneuvered her legs around his waist. Still overcome by the magnificent feeling of being surrounded in tight heat, Rick rested his hands behind him and enjoyed the view. Full breasts bounded as Michonne rocked her waist forward, taking him in deeper. Her face distended in ecstasy was a show he could tune into every day.
But soon Rick wanted to assist. His hands grabbed her plump behind to slide them into lotus. With his legs crossed it created a pocket to lock Michonne's ass in. She clasped his shoulders coming back to kiss him sloppily. His arms encircled her back keeping her snugly against him as he bounced her weight up and down. Moans and groans filled the air until Rick slowed it back down.
His stroke smooth and fluid nearly withdrawing from her grasping pussy before fully engulfing her, deeper each time. Her open legs inviting him in further while her feet glided against the sheets. Her hands clutching his toned back feeling all the muscles constricting with the roll of his body. His sweet kisses and sucks at any part of her skin he could reach overwhelmed Michonne. Her body trembled, nerves quaking for fear of spilling over. The powerful sensation of being consumed.
She expected something carnal, but Rick was delivering a powerful sensual experience. There was a fear of the level of release he was on the verge of supplying. Michonne needed it so badly with each plunge and she panted into his mouth. Her eyes squeezing shut tighter and she grabbed his shoulders still unwilling to relinquish.
But Rick felt all these contradictions emanating from her body. His tongue traveled the dampened skin of her neck, nipping at her ear so she whimpered. Her back arched so he was somehow able to advance further inside her plush walls. His rhythm steady to stimulate her ending but Michonne held back.
It wasn't just her orgasm. He'd learned how to bring about those rather swiftly or the ways in which he could drag it out for the sweet torture of it all. But now Michonne held back a deeper part of herself, a connection to her being. Her soul. His was there to share if she would only allow it entry.
Rick felt the tension coursing through her while she exhibited it through her grip on him. Michonne was strong willed, her guard was up, understandably so. He'd continue to put in the work to show her the depths of his feelings for her. The care he'd provide for her. The mountains he'd move to grant her comfort. He had to admit he'd been nervous to open up, it could be why he let her hold back too. But he had to take the first step to relaying his message or she'd never get the chance to accept.
He moved his hand backwards to reach one of Michonne's arms. His fingers encasing it and gently wrenching it free from his shoulder. Rick pulled her arm to the center of them then quickly took her palm. His hand covered hers until he successfully laced their fingers together. He squeezed them tightly and placed them against his beating heart. He maintained his complete and filling stroke, opening Michonne's eyes.
The corners of his lips rose encouragingly as they locked their eyes. Hers told him she wanted to let go of the worry, the pain, the anger. She wanted to give in to him. His relayed he would continue to provide her with whatever she needed until she knew how. They'd figure it out together.
Rick gave Michonne a moment to acquiesce. Her eyes filled with tears and only then did he release her hand. He gently wiped them away just as they were about to spill down her cheeks. Every breath was soft but forceful matching their lovemaking.
Once again, Michonne wrapped her arms around his neck. But this time tenderly. They rocked until shivers overtook them both. To the heavens, Michonne looked just as her sweet release struck her. She exhaled, throwing her head back. But Rick pulled her body to his lips muffling the sound of his passion being freed. Quivering through their mutual euphoria, they held on tight. Neither one is willing to let go.
Getting out to see King County was on the docket for the day. Since it seems like every time, they'd gotten near food around each other another hunger would take hold. Therefore, they decided to visit the local diner for breakfast in front of an audience.
Michonne didn't even flinch at the idea, and she even allowed Rick to hold her hand while out in public. She didn't seem troubled when Rick chatted with townsfolk like Fred and Cindy Drake, his former next-door neighbors. He'd introduce Michonne but allow them to form their own conclusions from their cozy disposition. The conversations were casual and breezy but welcoming. Michonne knew there were questions, but no one was going to blatantly ask them. A bit of hot gossip in another county didn't seem to bother her.
While sipping hot beverages over buttermilk biscuits, cheesy eggs and sausage, Rick and Michonne swapped stories about their kids when they were younger. Carl went through a phase of defiance, refusing to stay put, especially at the farm. One day he'd got it in his head to visit the chicken coops. Because he didn't want them to become dinner, he set them free. Not realizing the hens had a pardon as they laid eggs for the family. Rick laughed remembering how he, Carl and a few of the other farmers chased the chickens around trying to catch them. Lori and his mom thought it was hilarious, and belly laughed watching it all unfold.
It reminded Michonne of a trip to the museum where Andre couldn't be contained either. Ever excited about a day out, Andre loved seeing all the historical artifacts encased behind plexiglass. He refused to ride in a stroller or to be carried but apparently his little legs were tired. One moment he was standing near Mike and the next he was sitting on an antique throne beyond the ropes. Michonne called to him wary of going beyond the barricade herself. But Mike rapidly lifted him up before security could arrive. Andre sweetly cried not understanding why he couldn't sit on the pretty chair like a big boy.
Even though not spoken, Rick and Michonne each wished those memories had been something they'd witnessed. And they each looked forward to the future adventures their boys would have together. Rick admitted to his worries about Carl and the move after his tumultuous divorce. He and his boy were thankful for the friendship they'd found. It had recharged both their spirits. Michonne was also grateful because Andre gained a larger friendship circle while his father had become unreliable. The support was bolstering his confidence in the interests he loved.
Getting to have these deeper foundational conversations was exactly Rick's plan. Proving the ease with which their lives could combine was an important step. Michonne had to see just how compatible they all were. And Rick was excited for the scenic stroll through the quaint town center planned next.
Once they finished eating and chatting, Rick went to the counter to pay while Michonne used the restroom. Leaving the diner, hand and hand, they began their stroll only making it to the corner of the diners street.
"I told you that was Dad's truck!"
Michonne froze in place but frantically tried to let Rick's hand go. But he squeezed it tighter, not letting her escape. It was too late now. They both knew the sound of Carl's voice as it raced up from behind them. They wondered if they talked him up.
Michonne's eyes were big as saucers, but Rick gently tugged her into a one-eighty to face his son who ran from a presumed destination of the diner to meet them before they could step off the sidewalk.
Behind, the boy Lori hastily trailed. "You were right. I just didn't expect him to be in King County until it was time to pick you up later."
But Carl didn't slow his jog and slammed into Michonne hugging her fiercely, so Rick finally had to set her hand free. The boy beamed then smirked knowingly up at her, making her squirm. After a moment, Michonne successfully minimized her shock and returned to the joy of seeing the boy when she least expected it.
"Hi, Carl." Rick snickered noting the pecking order around here.
"Hey Dad." the boy laughed then went to his father for a hug noticeably shorter than Michonne's.
Carl radiated looking at both their faces expectantly, but Lori stepped in sensing the awkwardness.
"Michonne, it's nice seeing you again. Are you enjoying King County?"
"Uhh… yes. Yes, it's nice seeing you again too. And I haven't gotten to see much of it yet. I- we… we. Rick and I just finished breakfast." Michonne stammered, uncharacteristically.
"The diner's got the best breakfast in town. Rick would convince me he loved coming here with Carl just to avoid eating my cooking." Lori snickered but Carl laughed openly from being caught.
"You're busted Dad."
"Yeah, yeah. So are you."
They all chuckled but the awkwardness still remained blanketing the interaction.
"Umm… Rick can I talk to you for a minute?" Lori asked and he looked apprehensive but once Carl nodded to him, he reluctantly agreed.
"Sure."
"Ms. Michonne, I know a little history about King County. Let me show you the old train tracks. Right there behind the diner. You have to walk with me through the parking lot, if that's okay?"
"Yes. Of course, Carl. Let's go." Michonne briefly squinted at Rick but took his son's outstretched hand and strolled away.
The divorced pair waited a few seconds until they were alone then turned to face one another. They still muttered to keep any nosey diners and passerby's out of their conversation. The townsfolk had to be fogging up the windows expecting a show.
"When you told me I could have Carl for his day off from school, I didn't know this was why."
"I know, I know. It was a little hard to explain to you of all people."
Lori's eyes rolled upwards as she tried to find the name she searched for. "What happened to umm… Jessie wasn't it?"
"That's done." Rick grew nervous then he calmed looking at Michonne who smiled while balancing with Carl on the old, abandoned train beams.
"I think she's…" he grew uneasy and instantly closed his mouth, but Lori nodded encouragingly to his disbelief.
"You can say it. The one."
Rick fumbled. "Sorry, I know that must sound weird since we were-"
"Rick, I hope that through everything we have finally reached a place that we can be happy for one another."
Lori glanced over at Michonne and Carl animatedly speaking. "He likes her. He told me as much too."
Rick was so befuddled, he didn't know what to say.
"As long as she's good to our boy, well that's all that matters to me."
"She is. Just look at them." he tipped his head in their direction having found his voice to prop up Michonne.
"I see. Well, don't mess it up."
"Trying not to. Just have to get her fully on board."
Lori peered. "Isn't she… married? I did meet her husband, right?"
"Technically separated. Still living together but-" Rick stopped short "I know this makes me hypocritical but…"
"Rick, you don't have to explain to me of all people. I get it. And it can't get more complicated than us." Lori chortled but Rick cringed hoping things didn't go to those heights if… once Michonne chose to dissolve her marriage. But Jessie's fallacy of reconciliation resurfaced in his mind.
"I completely get it." Lori inhaled. "I felt the same way about DJ. It was hard to feel that way while I was still married to you. You were a good man. But you deserved more than what I could give without feeling… trapped." she winced ready for Rick's prior irritation, but he remained calm.
"Ignoring and avoiding you wasn't any better. I wish we had've talked things through sooner. Spared Carl all the heartache. Separated amicably."
"Me too." they sighed and looking at their son.
"But he seems like he's going to be okay. He really likes his new school and friends. And we worked out a custody arrangement that lets us both see him as much as possible. He even told me he's willing to give DJ a fair chance now. So, thanks if you had anything to do with that."
"No, that's just Carl. He's growing up and proving how smart and wise beyond his years he really is."
"Yeah." Lori hesitated. "Maybe you and DJ can find some common ground too?"
"Yeah, we should probably work on that." Rick nodded genuinely. "Maybe if it's okay with Carl, you could bring him to the show. I think that him showing up would mean a lot."
Lori grinned pleasantly surprised. "He wanted to come but was worried about his reception. I'll talk to Carl first."
There was a brief moment of silent reflection where the former couple exhaled with gratitude before Lori went on.
"And look we made it out of our divorce mostly unscathed. Thank goodness for counseling." they chuckled comfortably startling themselves again at the progress they'd made.
"Thanks Lori. I mean it." Rick nodded, making her smile. Then she looked over her shoulder at the diners' windows and back to her ex-husband.
"I should thank you. You've given the Drakes' something new to gossip about." they snickered when Lori's next door neighbors swiftly turned, pretending not to have been gawking at their entire interaction.
"Let me grab Carl and you two can go on with your day."
"Okay." they hesitantly went in for a brief hug. And once it was over they walked over to the train tracks.
"Carl, we still have a couple hours until your father is coming to pick you up. And I don't want to take up any more of his and Michonne's time together. Let's go have breakfast."
"Okay." Carl skipped over to tightly hug his father and whisper to him while his mother turned to Michonne.
"I'll see you at the showcase?"
"Uhh… yes." Michonne was flummoxed wondering what conversation was had that Lori was okay with this situation and looking forward to seeing her in the future.
"Great, it's so nice to see you again. Rick, see you later. Carl, let's go eat."
Lori started to walk towards the diner entrance, but Carl ran to tightly hug Michonne. They embraced before he pulled away to grin at her again. He conspiratorially nodded and smiled then jogged to catch up with his mother who turned back once she got to the diner's steps.
"Oh, and Michonne…" Lori called. "…Rick makes the most amazing pancakes. Just thought you should know that."
Michonne turned to Rick accusatorially. "You could've made me pancakes?"
"I figured it would be something for next time." Rick gleamed happy the accidental meetup hadn't turned sour.
They waved as Carl and Lori entered the restaurant. Then Michonne abruptly walked towards the truck in the parking lot and Rick realized he'd thought too soon. He wisely upped his pace to open her door, guessing their plans to wander through town had ceased.
Once Michonne was inside, he skipped around to the driver's seat and climbed in. He started the vehicle up and pulled off like nothing was amiss, but her stare was boring a hole into his profile.
"I know… You don't have to say it."
"Oh no. I do."
Rick sighed, his brow gathering sweat. "Okay."
"Through this whole thing between us, this is one of the things I worried about."
"About people finding out?"
"Yes."
The ball of nerves expanded in Rick's stomach making him nauseous. An unpleasant feeling on a full stomach.
"I get that. Back in town there's more relationships at stake for you since I only just moved there. I figured here in King, would be safe."
"I did too." Michonne pressed her eyes closed. "I got too reckless. We got too comfortable."
"Don't say that. This felt right. It does feel right. You have to admit that."
Rick tried to look at Michonne, but she wouldn't meet his eyes. She just leaned her head against the passenger side window, closing her eyes again. Rick had half a mind to pull the jeep over just so they could hash this out. But that kind of spectacle would only frighten Michonne in this instant. Consequently, he locked in for what he expected to be a silent and nerve-racking drive down the road back to Violet Fields. But Michonne exasperatedly huffed while staring out the window.
"Have you told everyone?"
"What?"
"You know what? I assume Morgan. Reg. Deanna. Now, Carl and Lori."
Rick grimaced. "Glenn figured it out on his own."
"Glenn knowing is like everyone knowing." Michonne snorted but squinted. "And why are they okay with it? Why is Lori okay with it?"
"Aren't Tyreese, Sasha and the guys at the shop okay with it too?"
"As far as the guys, we haven't had any conversations. I've briefly spoken to Tyreese. And of course, Sasha knows." Michonne deliberated for a moment. "And they are, I guess."
"See it wouldn't be so hard for us to be together."
"Rick-"
"Michonne. It wouldn't. But I have something else to tell you." Rick grinded his teeth when Michonne adjusted to glare at him. She didn't utter a word, but he grew nervous about what her reaction would be.
"But I think I should tell you once we get back to the house."
Michonne crossed her arms but didn't speak. She simply blinked & waited until they pulled into the tree lined trail. Rick pulled up right in front of the house and cut the engine. He exhaled while pulling the keys out then sat back, understanding Michonne had no plans on leaving the truck until he told her whatever it was, he had to say.
"I- I broke up with Jessie."
"What? When?"
"Not soon enough. That's for sure."
"What does that mean?"
He nearly told her about Jessie refusing to let go but that right now, could only make things worse. "Maybe I should've done it sooner."
"But I told you I didn't want to be the reason-"
"You're not. Look you definitely helped steer me in the right direction. But I had to come clean."
"You told her about us? Great! That's just great, Rick!"
"It was the right thing to do." Rick stared at her incredulously, so she huffed and groaned.
"I guess you're right, but shit! You should've warned me."
Rick chewed his lip. "You're right. I'm sorry and anything coming from her, I'll handle."
Her scowl returned. "What do you mean?"
"She umm… didn't take it well. She thinks I'll come back to her."
Rick risked leaning into Michonne's space to lock eyes with her and sternly and earnestly stated. "But I'm not ever."
Michonne stared into his eyes deeply looking for any sign of falter but there was none, yet she didn't respond.
"Can- can we go inside?" Rick anxiously asked.
There was a deafening silence until Michonne finally popped her door open. Rick speedily jumped out and ran around to assist, but she was too quick. He followed her up the steps, taking them two by two just to get ahead so he could open the front door for her.
Inside, Michonne kicked off her boots, snatched off her denim jacket and stormed into the kitchen. The fact that she made herself comfortable gave Rick a slight feeling of solace. He was preparing for her to run upstairs and grab her things ready to leave. This meant she must be willing to battle this out. That kind of passion had to mean something.
On opposite sides of the kitchen island, they landed. Michonne stood with her hands on her hips waiting for Rick to begin. He teetered his weight between his legs and looked to the flooring to find his words. He decided to just say it plainly and he met eyes with Michonne.
"I don't wanna be the guy you cheat with anymore. Friends you can keep. I went along with it because it's all I thought you'd be willing to accept between us. Just like 'Just this once'."
Michonne heavily sighed throwing her arms in the air before they landed on the sides of her head. She closed her eyes and rubbed her temples. But Rick knew they were in the thick of it and had to risk upsetting her further. He needed to break their unspoken rule.
Taking a deep breath, he asked his question delicately. "Why- why are you still with Mike?"
"You don't get to ask me that!" Michonne paced and Rick realized how difficult it might be to break through to her. He couldn't be hesitant now that the cat was out of the bag.
"I heard there's gossip about him running around on you. Why did you stay?" it wasn't an indictment.
"I don't want to talk about that."
"We have to. Michonne. We have to." Rick pleaded.
Michonne glowered at him, her stance communicating she was in full defensive mode. "What's the alternative? Be with you. You were cheating on your girlfriend also."
Rick recoiled at the severity but remained silent. He needed to know what was holding her back. No matter how much it hurt him, he knew she suffered infinitely more keeping it bottled up. She was trying to run him off, but he refused to let that happen. This was the wound he wanted to help heal for her. But it started with her opening up and her doubts would spill out.
As soon as the words left her lips, Michonne bared witness to the pain she'd inflicted on Rick. It was in his solemn eyes, and it caused an agony to develop in her belly. She didn't want to hurt him even as she admitted one of her greatest fears.
She moved to the side of the counter, closer to where Rick stood. But she still kept some distance, yet remorse covered her face. "I'm- I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that."
"No, I understand. Believe me, I get it. You had to question it. Question me. I'm the guy on the outside making you feel like what we could have is too good to be true. But it's not."
Rick took another inhale then audibly blew it out. "I thought if we had... uninterrupted time together. No nosey neighbors from back home. Less time constraint. Time to unravel this riddle between us…"
He wasn't sure where to go with this even having practiced it a million times. But Rick figured sharing his own truth was the best place. "I know what we are doing isn't right when you look at it from the outside. I know what it feels like to find out about such a betrayal."
"You mean when Lori cheated on you." Michonne cast her eyes down even more saddened by her harsh words when thinking of his gloomy experience.
Rick nodded. "Then, I knew my wife was unhappy, but I discounted it. Perhaps because I was just as miserable. And contented to be so."
Placing his hands on the countertop, Rick exhaled recalling the bad memories. "We argued all the time. Eventually, in front of Carl too. I knew that wasn't good for him. So, I started coming home late and sleeping on the couch. I'd get up before Carl woke to get him ready for school. Not wanting him to see it."
"Then I figured out what Lori was up to. I didn't confront her. I just kept giving her chances to admit it. But when she wouldn't, it got really bad. You see, by me evading her, it provided all the time and space she needed. By then I'd become very acquainted with the sofa in my trailer. But Lori turned the tables on me." Rick snorted. "She stopped coming home."
"Scared me at first just because I wanted to make sure the mother of my child was okay. Then she'd waltz in like nothing happened. Like she hadn't disappeared. Waiting for me to argue with her but I didn't, about that anyway. And one day, I realized I didn't care that she was with him. I just wanted my son and to get out."
Rick scoffed. "Yeah, Lori didn't like that. She didn't want me either, but she didn't want me to walk away so easily. That anger took us into the messy divorce and custody battle. To prove we each were right, and that the other was the cause of all the malice. We just wanted to hurt one another. Not considering Carl suffered for it."
"Was this-" Rick pointed between them as he was about to reveal his own fear "…just about hurting Mike?"
"No." Michonne shook her head aggressively and inched forward. "Of course not. Rick-"
"Because I was terrified, you'd go to therapy with him and end things between us. I was so scared." his eyes reddened.
"I just want you to know before you decide. I can be what you deserve. I can give you that. I'll be good to you."
Michonne felt the lump grow in her chest. She'd been ready to have a huge argument in the ineffectual manners that occurred with Mike. Instead, Rick was bearing his soul to her, and it made her readjust her stance. She needed to share her reluctancies and Rick didn't interrupt her formulating even though he was abundantly anxious.
Pulling her cellphone out and tapping a few times, Michonne stared at the screen. The corners of her lips rose for a gentle smile then she swiftly became serious. She tried to ignore the nagging feeling of fear she received when she initially opened the message. Carefully, she slid her device across the counter. "It's not that."
Rick claimed the phone and braved a look to see a picture of Andre smiling brightly while hugging his father. The timestamp showing its delivery from her husband yesterday. 'Chores complete' was the message above it. Below it said 'Having fun together. Miss you' Looking back to Michonne's conflicted face, Rick dreadfully exhaled when she shrugged.
"Mike is doing better with Andre. He said he would and he's actually attempting to. But what if… if it ends because we aren't together? What do I tell my son then?"
Rick recognized the heartache she suffered through for her child. He could tell Michonne blamed herself for not getting ahead of this. For not realizing what harm Mike did seemingly without a care until it was too late. Rick understood the continued disruption of the child's relationship with his father could cause issues. But what Michonne wanted Andre to have was still attainable. She didn't have to give up her happiness to obtain it for her son.
Michonne raised her head to the sky. "I wondered if I could suffer through the marriage until Andre got older and better able to understand what could happen in the dissolution. But now you've come along and… I realized my heart's still beating."
Rick wanted to go to Michonne and touch her chest to confirm it was true, but he held himself back. There was more they needed to hash out or her wall would go right back up once increased uncertainty crept back up. A ghost meant to haunt them unless they confronted it head on.
"Mike was the only man I… My dad's gone." Michonne dashed her tears away and took a shaky breath.
"I would never come between Andre and his father. It's taken time but DJ, the man Lori's with. He and I are coming to an understanding. I'm not going to lie to you. Carl felt like the man was the cause of mine and Lori's break up. He was mad at him for the split therefore he sided with me. He felt he had to pick sides."
"I knew then that I had to calm my anger, so he didn't lose that connection. Carl needed his mother more than I needed to be angry."
Rick snorted glumly. "It's part of why I moved forward with Jessie. I- I figured get him back into what he knew. What I knew."
"But Michonne, holding on to that anger will only make things more volatile. I realized I had to let that go before it rooted itself in me. It would become a sickness with an elusive cure."
"Staying with Mike while you bottle up your pain, wouldn't do Andre any good. And if you weren't sure…" Rick nodded compellingly. "I'll work with Mike in whatever way it makes things easier for Andre. And for you."
Michonne finally interrupted. "But what happened with Mike… I can't let that happen again. I've been through it too many times from a man I loved."
Rick's heart leapt in his chest at the undertone of her comment. She had deep feelings for him as well. She was too petrified to admit it. He was finally getting to the root of her retraction.
"We both know this was never just sex. This isn't just about us having fun. Or an escape from our real lives."
"How do I know?" Michonne looked at the ceiling and dragged in oxygen. Then she made eye contact with Rick. "Because it'll be harder for me. Too hard to walk away if you… I don't know if I'm ready to do more than just this."
Rick sat in that discomfort. He wouldn't let her push him away, but he needed something to hold on to. "If you need time, I'll give you that. But… do you want this? Us?"
With regret, Michonne remained silent. Everything in her wanted to scream yes but she was simultaneously afraid of the risk of breaking if she opened her heart fully to him.
"Michonne. Michonne, I lo-"
She frantically raised both her hands to stop Rick just in time. Then she wiped her tears from her cheeks roughly. But her lips trembled because she ached to hear it. Her nerve endings prickled from her longing. "Don't say it unless…"
"I'm frightened too. But I'm not willing to let anyone stand in my way when it comes to you. Not Mike. Not Jessie. Her father. Or anyone else. We'll deal with them."
Michonne stood straighter, her face displaying she was gathering a new opposition. "You've got too much riding to risk this."
"How?"
"The new development. Your future plans for your company. Having the councilman's daughter as your girlfriend would undoubtedly-"
"I'm not gonna pretend that kissing Robert Ridge's ass might give me an advantage. But I worked hard for my company's success. The people I trust, Morgan. Reg. Tobin. They worked hard for this."
"I know you did. I know you all did. That's why you can't give that up so easily."
"Easy no. But worth it, absolutely." Rick squared his shoulders.
"And I haven't forgotten about your dream. I will make that a reality for you, Michonne. Shit, I'd build you a salon wherever you want it." Rick waved in the air, and she almost cracked a smile.
"If you say no..." Rick exhaled wretchedly. "I'd be dejected and heartbroken of course but I'd respect your decision. Our distant friendship would have to be enough for me because I can't imagine you not being in my life. Because seeing you every day, knowing what we could have… That would break me, Michonne. I won't lie."
Michonne's breath caught in her throat at his sincerely. And because the thought of not seeing him again stung her as well. "You'd what… move back here to King County?"
"Not if I had another reason to stay."
Rick stared at Michonne but when she still didn't give him an answer, he began to pace. He finally came to a stop still giving her space, but he locked his eyes on her. This was his last chance to put it all on the line. To tell her his inner most feelings.
"A switch flipped, and I knew instantly that I'd given up too soon. That I could have the kind of love I dreamed of. And now I know. I know I dreamed of… you."
"Of having another son. And I've found that in Andre."
Michonne tears spilled from her eyes, but she didn't bother to wipe them away. Yet she listened intently over her pounding heart.
"I know, what we've done was wrong. I know. And maybe that means I should be punished. Maybe I should. It's what I deserve for coming between a marriage. After what I went through with Lori."
Rick's voice cracked. "I didn't think I'd ever find a great love. I thought finding something close to what I knew… that would be good enough. But then I stumbled into a barbershop on the Southside. And I heard the sweetest giggles through the back door. And then you came out and I laid my eyes on you. I felt it."
Both Rick and Michonne's eyes welled up, remembering the late night that changed everything. The spark that inexplicably ignited within them. Drawing them together again and again against all odds. Propelling them into each other's lives in varied ways. Michonne couldn't deny it and so she digested every word Rick continued to speak.
"I don't think you deserve to hurt anymore, Chonne. You've had enough. So, I'm thinking, the time I get to make your life not only softer but sweeter. That will be the proof that even though I was wrong… I was right."
He murmured as his eyes filled again. "Because at least I got to love you."
A wayward tear ran down Michonne's cheek as she gently smiled.
"Michonne, from the moment we locked eyes, I've loved you with all that is me."
"Rick, I-
"I love you. Michonne, I do. And you don't have to say it back just yet. I'm not gonna rush the process you have to go through any more than I've already done. But I had to say it. I had to let you know. And-"
Rick whispered with all his cards laid out on the table for her to decide. "We could be happy. We could. Be happy."
Wiping her cheeks first, Michonne's hands gripped the edge of the counter for dear life. Then through shuddering lips, she hastily blurted out. "I love you too."
Rick rounded the island in seconds, grabbing Michonne and kissing her fiercely. He pulled back to gaze at her face to make sure he hadn't imagined it. But Michonne tenderly smiled and wiped his cheeks. Her fingers weaved into his curls and her brown eyes sparkled causing hope to bloom.
"I love you, Rick."