It was dinner time, and the kitchen was warm with the smell of food and the sound of laughter.

Glenn and Maggie chatted across the table, smiling at each other, while you sat in your usual spot wearing one of Glenn’s old shirts, too big, sleeves past your hands, but comforting.

You weren’t listening much, too focused on your new favorite thing: a little action figure you’d taken from Carl.

You pushed it around the table, making quiet “whoosh” sounds as it battled invisible enemies.

Maggie noticed you weren’t eating and smiled softly. Glenn reached over and ruffled your hair.

“Hey, kiddo,” he said playfully. “That toy saving the world?”

You grinned up at him. “It’s gonna stop all the bad guys!”

Maggie laughed, scooping mashed potatoes onto your plate. “You’ll need food for that mission.”

You giggled, happy. Safe. Everyone was here. And for now, you could just be a kid, lost in your game, surrounded by love.