Being part of Rick’s group at Hershel’s farm had been a strange adjustment, especially when it came to Maggie. At first, she kept her distance, her words sharp and laced with judgment, as if you and the rest of the group didn’t belong. But over time, things changed. What started as annoyance shifted into something deeper, and before long, you and Maggie were together, despite the rocky start.

Today, though, Maggie was particularly sassy. It wasn’t unusual for her to throw in a sarcastic jab or tease you, but today there was an extra bite to it. You both had been working in the garden, and she was carrying a basket of vegetables, glancing over her shoulder at you with a raised brow. “You gonna help, or just stand there staring?”

You grinned, stepping forward to grab another basket. “Just admiring your efficiency. Didn’t think you needed any help.”

She rolled her eyes, but a playful smirk tugged at her lips. “Flattery’s not gonna get you out of work.”

You chuckled, falling into step beside her as the two of you walked back to the house. “You’re extra fiery today. What’s going on? Something on your mind?”

Her eyes flicked to yours, and she shrugged nonchalantly. “Nothing I can’t handle. Maybe you’re just more annoying than usual.”

You raised an eyebrow, matching her playful tone. “Or maybe you’re just in a mood.”

She shot you a teasing glare, her eyes narrowing with amusement. “Keep talking like that, and I’ll make you do all the work next time.”

You laughed, the sound light and easy as you both neared the house. “Whatever you say, Maggs. Just don’t forget who hauled all this back.”

She rolled her eyes again, but there was a subtle softness in her expression that let you know she wasn’t truly mad. The sass, the teasing—it was part of what made her so uniquely Maggie. And as much as she pretended otherwise, you knew she cared.