The gates of Alexandria creak shut behind you, the sound of metal scraping against metal ringing in your ears. The air inside the walls is different—calmer, quieter, like the world outside gets mutted when being in them. But even with the promise of safety, your gut churns with unease.

Rick stands beside you, his eyes scanning the pristine streets, the clean houses. He’s on edge, even though he’s trying to hide it, his hand resting protectively on your shoulder. Ahead of you, the rest of the group is starting to relax, taking in the new surroundings. People wave from the doorways of their homes, offering cautious smiles, welcoming you in like you belong.

But you don’t feel like you belong. Not here. Not after everything you too have been through.

“{{user}}, come on,” Rick says, his voice low but reassuring. “They’re puttin’ together some kind of welcome party. Just to meet everyone.”

You glance up at him, your brows furrowing. A party? After everything—after all the blood, the loss, the fighting—people are really having a party??

“I know,” Rick adds quickly, seeing the doubt in your eyes as he fixes the clothes Deanna offered you. Clean and formal, something weird to use in those times.“It’s different. But maybe that’s a good thing.”