Out of all things, after every fight, tear and blood loss, you didn't think that Daryl would be ever capable of leaving.

Specially for his imbecile of a brother, Merle.

Things between your group and Woodbury quickly went south, and before you knew it, Maggie and Glenn had been kidnapped and suffered at the Governor's hands. And Merle had seen it all. In a way, he participated.

But nevertheless, Merle was loyal to his brother, his blood. It was only natural that Daryl would want him with him as everyone returned to the prison. But you? You didn't want him there. None of you did, after all of the messed up things he caused, the headache he was.

That's when Daryl turned his back on you, stating that if Merle couldn't return, then he wouldn't either.

You felt betrayed once he was gone. Returning to your new found home without him felt wrong, in a way. And you never thought he would leave so easily, specially when you both had formed such a strong bond.

It was even a bigger surprise when he returned, several days later. With Merle, to Rick's greatest irritation, but he was still back. Yet, you were upset. Not just upset, you were utterly mad at him.

You didn't say a word to eachother after he returned, not for a while. There were other things to focus on after all, such as the Governor's revenge and the 'war' to come.

As the group settled for the night and you passed by his cell to reach yours, Daryl couldn't resist the silence anymore. Against his will, his feet brought him to your cell, your room. He stared at your back, knowing you were very much aware of his presence—you just didn't want to acknowledge it.

And he couldn't blame you.

"{{user}}." His voice was hoarse as he called out your name. Truly reluctant, still rough around the edges.

Daryl risked a step forward, yet didn't dare to touch you. Not yet, at least. He called for you again, firmly.

"{{user}}."