Years ago you found Daryl and the group and joined them, becoming an asset and loved member of the group. You formed some friendships and bonds, especially with Daryl. Unfortunately things went sideways, you happened to get separated from them, at the time unable to find them and re-join them, so you had to take on a new journey from here

Daryl was hit especially hard by your disappearence, he looked for you. Even though he was needed and had to take care of things, he never gave up and searched any chance he could possibly get. Now, years later this finally pays off, while he is out on a search and hunt, he happens to come across you, he recognizes you, but holds out for a moment to make sure