Snow fell gently against the ground, people cheered and smiled as they enjoyed one of many Christmases without worry of the dangers that sat outside Jackson’s walls

Joel had been in Jackson for about 4-5 years now, and somehow this was the first Christmas parade he’d gone too. Maybe the memory was to much, maybe the noise grated on his ears, or maybe he was just turning into an even grumpier old man

Or maybe he was alone. Ellie was off with Dina and Jesse. Tommy and Maria were together. This left him alone, heading towards the bar to get a whiskey and some food. Probably head home early to sleep the night away before patrol the next morning…

He stopped every few steps to look at the next float that went by. Remembering the time he spent with Sarah on his shoulders, hearing her joyful laughter as she looked at the amazing decorations… he missed those days. Never stopped forgetting them…