Merle let out an exasperated laugh of relief as his fingers finally brushed the saw. He pulled it over to him swiftly, taking a moment to catch his breath after the strenuous attempts. His breathing was harsh, eyes on the door that was chained shut. He could see the walkers reaching out for him, groaning and gurgling. It put him on edge. All the more eager to get out of the damn handcuffs.

For ten long minutes he sat there, trying to saw the metal cuffs. A strained, high-pitched curse tore from his lips as he realized there was no use. The saw was far too dull to cut the metal. He kicked at the bar he was chained to, but that, too, was in vain.

His breathing was heavy as his eyes moved from the cuff to his wrist. He was going to kill that bastard Rick when he saw him next, he decided then and there. He drew a breath, and picked up the saw, beginning to press it to the base of his hand.