My Retribution (third instalment of Exception Series)

Two

Entering the atrium made my heart explode! Each level of the old factory floor was crammed with saviors, cheering as soon as we rounded the corner.

Skye giggled, skipping beside her father. If I have daughters, I hope they're even half as magnificent as this young woman. What a marvel she was!

All these cheerful faces greeting their old leader back into the fold. The love and affection for this man was palpable. It had only been just over an hour since we left the Hilltop, but these wonderful people showered us with confetti, all with a glass in hand.

"Three cheers for our Princess, and her safe return!"

This was for me?

"Hip, hip!"

I cried like no one was watching. So overwhelmed by these people's love and support. I waved and blew kisses in every direction.

Negan waved, kissed my forehead, before rubbing his hands together and doing one of the things he does best. "Now, my saviors! I know it's been a long ass fuckin' haul these past few months! And I'm sure you're glad to see the tides change, bringing in something new to this place."

The space was silent, the saviors captivated. This man had a talent for leading, so natural it was like breathing. "This place remains a symbol of our resilience and strength, never laying down and playing dead!" this spurred enthusiastic head nodding all round. He then clutched my hand and pulled me in front of him, rubbing my potbelly. "And like a phoenix, new life has sprung from our ashes. I couldn't be happier to announce that we're expecting two little prince or princesses."

My eyes glistened, lump forming in my throat as I focused on my husband's Cheshire grin, eyes blown out.

I couldn't love this man more than I did in this moment.

The crowd roared with congratulatory caws, feverish spirit making me float.

"TWINS?"

"Did he say twins?"

"Oh my God, double trouble!"

"What a joyous miracle!"

"Our princess? Pregnant? I cant even!"

Workers came in droves, rubbing my belly like I was a Buddha statue and offering tissues to wipe my happy tears away.

After a while, the waves of people parted, letting through a familiar face. Arat approached with a small smile. The past few months had not been kind to this woman, she looked under-fed, purple bags under her eyes.

Had she been held prisoner too?

I waved at her as she held out two familiar items. That black leather jacket, and a recently polished Lucille.

Negan's bottom lip trembled, puppy like discs sparkling. "Arat! You fucking beautiful individual!"

He swept the tough lieutenant off her feet, swinging her small but durable frame like a merry-go-round.

"It's good to see you back sir." she wheezed, flailing her limbs like a frantic Thunderbird.

I was disappointed when she sneered before turning her back to me. "Congratulations on your babies sir! You're gonna be a good father."

"Thank you Arat! That's so sweet of you to say! We cant wait." I chimed in, taking the precious cargo from her, unwilling to let her ridiculous beef drag the mood down.

She was just gonna have to learn to get over it.

Build that bridge, and jog over it sugar!

She turned to me, lips pursed and brow raised. "Its good to see you back princess." Crossing her arms, she looked me up and down, dubious tone present. "I'm sure it would've been horrible back at your home, surrounded by your people. You were... kidnapped, right?"

Not on today bitch!

I held my fingers to my chest in mock horror. "Excuse me Arat, but I'm a bit confused. What do you mean by that sweetie?" Batting my lashes at her, I patiently waited for her to crack her jaw and rebut.

"I think you know what I mean. Looking pretty good for a prisoner, especially for someone who was dragged out kicking and screaming."

Negan's face dropped, attempting to step in front of me.

But I wasn't having it. She was never going to respect me if I let him fight all my battles. So, I held my hand out to him, and stepped closer to the pocket rocket.

Stroking my chin, I eyed her. "I was just thinking lovely: wouldn't it be safe to assume that if I came here arm in arm with our fearless leader, that would mean that Negan thinks that I'm on the up and up, correct?"

She remained stoic. Her cheek muscles clenched.

"So, pardon me if I've read this wrong. But, it sounds like that you're questioning our leader's judgement."

Her eyes widened, nostril's flaring. "I'd trust Negan with my life!"

Using my extra height, I leaned in, nose touching nose. "Well, you need to trust that my husband's judgement of me is accurate." I shook my head, stupid tears clogging my throat. "Sanctuary is my home, and I am here to stay. I'm here to make this place great again! To help MY people. So please, help me..." I placed a hand on her shoulder, my voice brewing, resolve transforming my usual raspy tone to one of pure conviction. "Or get the hell out of my way."

The worn warrior was the first to break eye contact. She nodded at Negan, then tilted her head at me before walking back into the crowd.

To be continued...

Negan leaned into me, lips brushing my helix. "Well, well, well, Momma bear. That made me larger than the fucking Washington monument."

Instant Niagara Falls down there.

I swatted him, thankful that Skye was busy chatting away with Jesus out of eat-shot. "We haven't even been taken to our room."

"Fuck princess! All I need is a broom closet, I'll fucking get us there." His weathered hands made their way to my cheek. A seemingly innocent gesture from any outsider, but he knew what he was doing to me.

pushing up to the balls of my feet, I whispered, "clear a path to our room lumberjack." running my fingers through his overgrown silver beard. "Lets take care of that wood."