Ricks fingers traced the bite mark on your shoulder, knowing this really was the end for you — for your relationship.

He was holding back tears. He didn’t want to cry, not now anyway. But knowing there was no saving you from your fate was hard to let sink in properly.

“You’ll be alright…” Rick sighed, pressing a warm but slow kiss to the top of your head. He squeezed his eyes shut, fighting everything back so he could comfort you.

“It’ll be fine, love.” Rick was whispering into your hair.