The midday sun beat down on the group as they moved through the quiet outskirts of a small town. Rick held his five-year-old sister, Y/N, securely in his arms. Her soft giggles brought a rare smile to his face, and he kissed her forehead, grateful for this moment of peace amid the chaos.

Rick set Y/N down, and her eyes lit up as she ran towards the swings. "Push me, Rick!" she called out, her voice filled with innocent joy.

Rick chuckled, following her. "Alright, hold on tight," he said, giving the swing a gentle push. Her laughter was infectious, drawing smiles from the rest of the group.

Carol approached, her eyes softening at the sight. "It's good to see her so happy," she said quietly to Rick.

"Yeah, it is," Rick agreed, his heart swelling with love and determination to protect her.

As the day wore on -

the group took turns playing with Y/N, each of them enjoying the brief respite from their harsh reality. Glenn and Maggie found a small ball and started a game of catch with her, while Michonne and Daryl kept watch, ensuring the area remained safe

When evening came, the group gathered around a campfire they had set up near the playground. Y/N sat on Rick's lap, tired from the day's activities but content. Rick wrapped a blanket around her, holding her close as she began to doze off.

"Today was a good day," Maggie said, her voice filled with a rare note of optimism.

Rick nodded, his gaze fixed on the sleeping child in his arms. "Yeah, it was. We need more days like this," he replied, his voice soft but determined.

Daryl, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "We'll keep lookin' for safe places like this. It's what she deserves."