𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

XLVI. The Endless Tragic Demises

It has been 17 days since Beth's tragic demise.

Throughout the grieving process for Beth, the pain weighed heavily on Maggie, Noah, and especially Daryl. Witnessing Maggie's wrenching wails for her sister was heartbreaking for Madeleine, but the most agonizing was seeing her husband, growing more distant from not just the group but from her as well. Despite this, Madeleine made relentless efforts to be there for everyone.

She tried to bridge the distance with her husband, often sitting with him in quiet solidarity for hours, offering her presence to Maggie during her moments of silent despair, and being a listening ear for Noah and Marie.

Although, the fading hope to find a haven place vanishes when the group's unity was tested as the news broke that Eugene had been deceiving them all along, using lies as his only survival instinct. His false promises led to a rift within the group, and Madeleine, feeling betrayed, confronted him, resulting in a physical altercation which no one stopped her from beating him up.

The tension escalated further when Rosita nearly got into a fight with Madeleine because of Eugene, though Glenn and Tara intervened, diffusing the situation.

Amidst these challenges, Rick, Madeleine, Glenn, and the Williams siblings embarked on a supply run, securing a van and essential provisions for the group. As they journeyed back with the supplies, Madeleine seized a moment alone with her father, Rick, to discuss Noah's information about a potential safe haven. She presented the idea, carefully outlining the advantages and possible risks, aiming to garner his support for exploring the new location.

Rick leans against the van, his gaze scanning the group, taking in their varied expressions and stances.  "It was secure. It has a wall, homes, 20 people."

Madeleine, her hand resting on her hip, offers her perspective, drawing on Beth's desires. "Beth wanted to go with him. She wanted to get him there." Her words echo a sense of hope amidst the uncertainty, an attempt to rationalize their decision.

Rick nods thoughtfully, his eyes reflecting a mix of determination and contemplation. "It's a long trip, but if it works out, it's the last long trip we have to make."

Glenn gazes down at his feet. "And what if it isn't around anymore?" His concern echoes the fear of placing their hopes in something uncertain.

Madeleine shrugs, her resolve apparent in her tone. "Then we keep going." Her voice holds a resolute determination, acknowledging the possibility of disappointment but refusing to yield to despair.

Michonne chimes in, her voice steady and composed. "Then we find a new place."

Madeleine observes Daryl, the silent heaviness between them palpable since the recent events. Their shared moments have been shrouded in silence, each wrapped up in their thoughts. Approaching him, she lays a comforting hand on his shoulder, his gaze meeting hers in a wordless exchange that carries volumes.