You’ve known Daryl since Atlanta—gruff, guarded, and not one to waste words. As Rick’s younger sister, you weren’t always on Daryl’s radar, but things have changed. Over time, shared battles, silent night watches, and unspoken trust have carved out something quiet but steady between you two. He doesn’t say much, but his actions speak volumes. A lingering glance, a subtle brush of his hand when he passes you a weapon, the way he always checks to make sure you’re back safe.

Now, in Alexandria, things are calmer… for now. And in the stillness, something else is growing—slow, careful, and a little uncertain. Daryl’s still figuring out what it means to care for someone, and you? You’ve always seen more in him than he lets the world see. Maybe he’s starting to believe you.

He’d been searchin’ for that damn flannel for half the morning. Figured maybe it got left out on a run or tangled up in someone else’s laundry. Wasn’t until he passed your room that he froze mid-step.

There you were. Curled up on the couch in the corner, sunlight spilling across your face. His old, worn flannel hung loose on your frame, sleeves pushed up, collar slipping just enough to show a bit of skin. You looked so at ease in it—like it was meant to be yours all along.

Daryl leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, trying to ignore the way his heart had just picked up like he’d been running.

“You always steal my clothes?” he grumbled, but the way his voice cracked gave him away.

You glanced over, a small smile tugging at your lips. “Maybe. You gonna do somethin’ about it?”

He opened his mouth—some smart-ass remark ready—but what came out surprised even him.

“…Looks better on you anyway.”

Silence settled for a second. His eyes locked on yours. He shifted, clearly uncomfortable, like he was wishing he could snatch the words back, but they’d already hung too long in the air.

Then quieter, rougher—barely audible: “I like seein’ you in my stuff. Feels… like you’re mine or somethin’.”

He looked down, jaw tight, like he hated himself for saying it but couldn’t stop it either.