𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

XLIV. The Highway to Hell

As the day wore on, the couple traveled in silence, their journey marked by the endless road stretching out before them. The faint glimmers of daylight gradually surrendered to the encroaching nightfall, casting an eerie shadow over the landscape. The duo finally arrived at the church, their arrival marked by a blend of relief and anticipation. Their eyes met with Michonne and Gabriel, who stood outside the church, their expressions a mix of puzzlement and curiosity upon seeing the unfamiliar face of the young boy, Noah, accompanying them.

Upon reuniting with the rest of the group, their story unfolded like a suspenseful tale. They revealed the alarming news about Beth and Carol being held captive at Grady Memorial Hospital, prompting a surge of concern among the group members. The mention of the Terminus attack brought a palpable tension, mingled with a sense of triumph at having overcome the threat.

Gathered together, they began piecing together a plan to rescue their captured comrades. Noah's insights into the hospital's layout and the individuals in charge became a crucial asset as they strategized and deliberated on the safest approach to execute the rescue mission.

Marie's scolding tone held a mixture of frustration and concern as she admonished Madeleine for her impulsive decision to leave without a clear plan. The news about Abraham's choice to depart with his group had caused Glenn, Maggie, and Tara to follow suit, which angered Madeleine.

Taking a deep breath, Marie handed over Glenn's necklace to Madeleine, a sense of responsibility and regret flickering in her eyes. As she did so, her gaze fell upon the new piece of jewelry adorning Madeleine's neck, a subtle observation she chose not to vocalize at that moment.

Silence lingered in the air for a brief moment, the weight of the recent departures and the decisions made hung heavily over their heads. Marie's concern for the group's well-being etched lines of worry across her face, yet she maintained a sense of composure, trying to remain the anchor amidst the chaos.

Madeleine gripped the necklace with a nod of gratitude, her expression betraying a mix of emotions—guilt, uncertainty, and a tinge of sadness. The departure of them weighs heavily on her mind, but she put on a facade of resilience, attempting to reassure Marie in the face of the situation's gravity.

Marie chose to hold her tongue about the newly acquired jewelry, recognizing that some things are better left unspoken for the time being. Their silent communication spoke volumes, conveying a shared sense of determination to weather the storm that has rocked their group. Marie's unspoken support and Madeleine's attempts to hold herself together in the face of uncertainty were evident.

As dawn breaks, a sense of purpose fills the group as they labor to fortify the church, their actions a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity. Madeleine observes the collective effort, the morning light casting a solemn glow upon their task. Sasha wields the sledgehammer with determined strikes, her grief palpable in each swing as she demolishes the church's seats, a cathartic release from the anguish of Bob's loss, a man she cherished.