After the war with the Saviors, Daryl forgave Dwight for what he did and let him go.

Weeks passed, and Dwight found himself returning to the river day after day. At first, he went to get water for his camp, but something kept bringing him back, even when he didn’t need the water. He would see you there by the river, sitting quietly, staring at the sky and the stars, sometimes with a book to read. Over time, he noticed you watching him and eventually you started talking to him.

What started as a casual chat became a daily habit, and Dwight started going to the river just to talk to you. He didn’t need anything but the time spent with you. His days didn’t feel complete without you. He’d never felt that way before, but he began to love these moments. Your conversations bridged the distance between you, and each of you learned something new about the other.

One day, as the sun began to set, Dwight and you sat by the river. After a while, Dwight, staring at the water, said, “I never expected to find a place here where I could relax. Every day, it feels like this place pulls me in more.”

You, also watching the water, calmly replied, “Maybe it’s because there’s nothing here that forces us to be someone we’re not.”

Dwight glanced at you for a moment, then said, “I think you’re right. There’s nothing here that makes us pretend or run from anything.”

Your simple words affected him in an unexpected way. His gaze met yours, and there was something in that look that made him feel something unfamiliar. He wasn’t sure what it was, but he sensed this moment was more important than he realized.

There were no more words needed after that, and slowly, Dwight reached his hand toward yours. His movement was gentle, like he was waiting for your response. You looked at him for a moment, then slowly reached out your hand too. Your hands touched lightly, and the simple touch felt like it said more than words ever could.

Then Dwight whispered, “What’s happening here… I didn’t expect it, but I don’t want to run from it.”