Just Hold On - Daryl Dixon (TWD)

27.

*A/N - Pay close attention to this chapter. Theres a lot hidden in small details. Also, very long, but important AN at the end of this chapter. HOPE Y'ALL LIKE IT!*

*Lucia's POV*

Jackson and I sat on each side of Ava, who was still in the infirmary.

"How much longer do I need to be in here? Carl's out already!" She whined.

"Carl's injury is much different than yours. You were a little more critical," I reminded her, giving her a look.

She looked at me sheepishly with a small smirk on her lips. I could see a faint blush working its way up her neck.

"Oops?" She said with an awkward smile sent my way.

Jackson hopped up onto the small bed beside Ava and leaned against her gently, making sure not to hurt her.

"I'm glad you're okay. You're like my big sister," Jackson said, looking up at Ava.

I flinched at his words, not knowing how she would feel about him saying that when she lost her own brothers not that long ago.

"Jackson, maybe now isn't a good time to-" I started, but Ava looked up at me with eyes full of unshed tears, shaking her head.

She looked back down at Jackson and a shaky smile came across her face. I watched as her tears started falling and my heart clenched at her obvious pain.

"You have given me a reason to be a big sister again, Jack, and I can't thank you enough. I'm so glad I found you guys," Ava said, putting her arm around him and pulling him close.

I put my own hand on top of her head and played with her hair gently. Her tears continued to fall and Jackson just stayed in her arms, knowing that's what she needed right now.

Our moment was cut short when two quiet knocks came from the door.

Ava wiped her face quickly and said, "come in."

The door opened slightly; enough for Daryl to peek in. His bright blue eyes scanned the room, going from Ava to Jackson and then landing on me. My breath hitched in my throat as our blue eyes met.

We hadn't really talked about the kiss since it happened a few days ago, but the atmosphere around us was anything but awkward. At least to me.

Daryl started walking over to us, stepping beside me and putting his hand on the back of my chair. Instead of nervousness, I suddenly felt calm. Like everything would be fine. I took in a deep breath before looking back at Ava and Jackson.

"Rick and I are going on a run. We're runnin' pretty low here. Wanted to ask if you needed anything," he said, looking at Ava.

I could see the concern in his eyes as he looked over her red, tear stained face. His reaction made my heart clench again, but this time it was a happy feeling. As tough as he wanted to seem, I could tell that he genuinely cared about Ava and Jackson and how they were feeling. My heart warmed at the sight.

Ava sniffled, trying to get her tears under control. I could tell she was embarrassed that he was seeing her so vulnerable, but I just wish that she didn't feel that way.

Before she could say anything, Daryl reached into his pocket and pulled out a crumpled, but clean napkin. He handed her the brown napkin and pulled Jacksons old chair beside mine.

"You doing okay? How's the pain?" He asked her gently, sitting down next to me.

"Yeah, I'm okay. It hurts, but I'll live... I hope," she said with a laugh.