Those Who Remain

CHAPTER FOUR

The sun rises, casting its warm glow over the desolate landscape. It's a new day in our uncertain world. As I wake up, I find myself outside the barn with Maggie. She's been through so much since our days on the farm, and I can see the weight of it on her face. We sit on the ground, seeking solace in each other's company.

"Are you feeling okay?" I gently ask, concern lacing my voice.

Maggie sighs, her eyes reflecting both exhaustion and resilience. "Yeah, it's just tough," she replies, her voice carrying the weight of our shared experiences. I place a reassuring hand on her shoulder, silently assuring her that we'll get through this together.

"We're going to be okay," I say, my words filled with hope, even if it feels fragile. "I'm always here for you," I add, looking into Maggie's eyes. A small smile graces her lips, a sign that my presence brings her comfort.

Suddenly, a figure emerges from the distance. His hands are raised in a gesture of peace, signaling that he means us no harm. My instincts kick in, reminding me of the dangers we've faced, the cruelty we've encountered from others. I swiftly reach for my sword, pointing it towards the stranger, and I notice Maggie raising her gun, ready to defend herself.

"I didn't mean to interrupt," the man says, his voice calm but tinged with nervousness. He takes slow steps forward, his hands still raised, trying to reassure us. "Good morning. My name is Aaron," he introduces himself.

Maggie and I maintain our defensive stance, on edge and uncertain. We've learned to be cautious, to trust sparingly in this world. "I know, stranger danger," Aaron continues, acknowledging the wariness in our eyes. "But I'm a friend," he asserts, his voice betraying a hint of vulnerability.

"I'd like to talk to the person in charge," he adds, and my mind immediately shifts to Rick. He's our leader, the one who guides us through this chaotic existence.

"Rick, right," Aaron confirms, his knowledge of our group's structure catching me off guard. Maggie's voice trails off, her curiosity piqued but cautious. "How do you know..." she begins, leaving her question unfinished, hanging in the air. "Why?" I quickly add.

"I have good news," Aaron announces, his words carrying a flicker of hope. We exchange glances, uncertainty lingering.

˚ʚ♡ɞ˚

We cautiously enter the dimly lit barn, our weapons at the ready. Maggie leads the way, with Aaron following closely behind. I position myself just behind Aaron, my senses heightened and alert to any potential threat.

"Hey, everyone," Maggie speaks with measured words, aware of the delicate situation. "This is Aaron," she introduce, her voice laced with caution.

The group stands up, their weapons pointed towards Aaron. Always on guard and hesitant to trust newcomers. I remain watchful, observing the dynamics as Maggie continued to speak.

"We met him outside. He's by himself," Maggie explains, emphasizing the fact that we have disarmed him and taken his belongings.

Daryl steps forward, conducting a thorough search of Aaron, ensuring he carries no hidden weapons. Rick stands in the center, holding Judith in his arms, his gaze locked on Aaron, the stranger.

"Hi," Aaron greets, his voice calm. Judith begins to cry, and Rick hands her over to Carl for comfort.

"It's nice to meet you," he continues, taking a step forward, causing Daryl to react instinctively.