𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

XL. The Uncertain Future of New Faces

The group trudged along for what felt like endless hours, a palpable silence enveloping them, broken only by the rhythmic cadence of their footsteps marching toward an unknown tomorrow.

Weary from their journey into the uncertain expanse, they reach a collective decision to halt and take a much-needed respite. Easing themselves into a temporary reprieve, they settle down to rest, casting away the burden of their ongoing quest for a brief interlude.

Amidst the group, Madeleine finds a spot beside Daryl, her head resting on his shoulder as he wraps an arm around her. Nearby, Maggie and Glenn sit close, their presence a reassuring anchor in this time of uncertainty.

Rick engages in conversation with Tara, their discussion carrying a weight of shared understanding and mutual trust, forging bonds amidst the trials they face. Meanwhile, new faces among the group huddle together, forming connections born out of the shared hardships they've endured.

In another corner, Carl strikes up a conversation with Marie, her attention divided as she lovingly tends to Judith, nurturing an atmosphere of warmth and care even amidst the harsh reality that surrounds them.

In this respite, despite the uncertainty that looms over their heads, a sense of unity and solidarity prevails among the group, each member finding solace and strength in the company of those they now call allies in this arduous journey towards an indeterminate future.

Amidst the tranquil respite, Madeleine locks eyes with Glenn, a familiar grin illuminating his face. Their shared history, marked by past encounters and hardships, reflected in their exchanged glances.

"How did you make it out? Last I saw, you were still knocked out from the flu," Madeleine inquires, her curiosity piqued.

Glenn gestures towards Tara, one of the newer faces among the group. "Tara saved me. She's a good friend," he responds, a hint of gratitude evident in his voice.

Playfully narrowing her eyes, Madeleine feigns offense. "Replaced me already, pizza boy?"

Glenn chuckles, his warmth evident in his tone. "Never replaced you. You're my best friend for life. But they saved me, so... they're winning," he teases, eliciting a smile from Maggie, who observes their banter with affection.

As Daryl focuses on skinning an animal nearby, his skilled hands moving with practiced ease, he steals a glance at the playful interaction between Madeleine and Glenn, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

Pulling out a journal from his jacket, Glenn extends it towards Madeleine. "Found this. Thought it'd be a good gift if I saw you again."

Gratefully accepting the journal, Madeleine's eyes light up as she flips through the pages, discovering her original journal filled with precious memories. Her smile widens, expressing heartfelt appreciation. "Thank you," she says sincerely, meeting Glenn's gaze with gratitude.