Red ~ TWD (Daryl Dixon)

All the Time in the World

"You take care of your Dad and Deadpool while I'm gone."  Nugget bottom lip quivered as she hugged her stuffed animal closer.  "I love you the most."

She sniffled and tears fell down her rosy red, chubby cheeks.  "Love you the mostest too Awex."

Her tiny arms wrapped around my neck and I struggled to keep my own tears from falling.  Hugging her tight I stood, bringing the little girl with me.  Maybe Rick wouldn't notice if I smuggled her out.

"I'll come visit soon," I promised. 

Nugget's only response was another sniffle.  Daryl reached over, prying the tiny human off me and holding her close.  He whispered soothing words that instantly calmed the sad little girl.  Daryl was a redneck baby whisperer.

Everyone was gathered at Hilltop's front gate to see us off.  So far we'd said our goodbye's to almost everyone and there wasn't a dry eye in sight.  We insisted this wasn't forever, simply a hillbilly-esc vacation, if such a thing existed.  Still, it was the first time we'd voluntarily separated from the group, and it made everyone anxious. 

Francine's eyes and nose were red and I pursed my lips, wrapping my arms around the smaller woman before she could say anything.  I promised I would see her soon which brought on another round of tears.  Merle gently pulled his wife away much like Daryl had done with Nugget, handing her off to Beth and Maggie, the sisters resting their heads on each of her shoulders.

Merle looked uncomfortable with the emotional turmoil which was comforting.  It was nice to know that in the midst of so much uncertainty some things never changed.

"Ya take care of Darlina, ya hear?"

Nodding I smiled.  "I always do."

"Come on, let's get this over with."

He grabbed my arm, hauling me against him in a rough embrace.  My arms circled his waist as I rested my chin on his shoulder.

"I'm gonna miss you too Captain Hook."  He mumbled something I couldn't make out and I looked at him.  "Are you crying?"

"Hell no!"  He pulled away, angrily swiping at his eyes like they'd betrayed him by leaking fluid.  "It's the goddamn dust."

"Your secret's safe with me." 

I squeezed his hand, giving him a soft smile.  Daryl stopped by my side, the two brothers starring at each other for a beat before they both took a step forward, initiating the time-honored tradition of the "boy hug". 

"Make sure ya leave a trail," Merle reminded us for the millionth time.

Daryl huffed, "Ain't got no choice."  He hooked a thumb in my direction with a half-hearted eye roll.  "This one's like a bull in a china shop."

"Ex-cuse me!"  They both laughed, dismissing my outrage with an identical wave of their hands.  "Not that this conversation isn't as titillating as the Mormon Kama Sutra, but can we go?"

Merle hooted, slapping his leg in amusement.  Shaking my head I picked up my pack, slinging it on my shoulders.  Carl was now holding Nugget, Deadpool holding his hand as they waved goodbye from the porch.  Carol gave her best friend a kiss on the cheek, making him promise to be careful and visit soon. 

Over the course of the last few weeks we said our goodbyes to everyone hoping to make this day as painless as possible.  Explanation about why we were leaving weren't necessary.  If anyone understood the need for space so we could heal, it was our group.  At one time or another we'd all been there and would likely be again. 

Daryl's hand slid into mine and I smiled up him as we made our way to the front gate.  The guards gave us a finger wave, opening the gate.  Glancing over my shoulder I saw everyone standing side-by-side watching us leave, some with tears in their eyes, some with smiles, some with what looked a lot like hope.  I watched them until the gate finally closed then with a heavy sigh I scanned the perimeter.