Bloodlines.

Chapter Five: Dwight Attacks.

The morning sunlight streamed softly through the curtains as Alyssa woke to the comforting smell of eggs and oatmeal wafting up the stairs. She stretched lazily before carefully getting dressed, her movements unhurried for the first time in what felt like ages.

When she made her way downstairs, she found Aaron at the stove, expertly flipping eggs in a pan, while Eric sat at the table, sipping coffee and scrolling through some old books they'd salvaged.

"Morning," they both greeted her with warm smiles as she entered.

Alyssa smirked as she slid into a chair. "I hit the jackpot, didn't I?" she quipped, leaning back and crossing her arms, her tone lighter than usual.

Aaron and Eric both laughed, the sound filling the cozy kitchen. "We aim to please," Aaron said over his shoulder as he plated the eggs and brought them to the table.

They all sat down, the conversation easy and relaxed as they began eating.

"These eggs from the Hilltop are good," Eric commented, spearing another bite with his fork.

Alyssa nodded, practically stuffing her face full. "Better than anything we've had in months," she said between bites, her hunger overriding any attempt at table manners.

Aaron chuckled. "Glad you approve. We've got more deals like that lined up with them, so let's hope this stays steady."

Alyssa slowed down as she looked at the two of them, watching the easy way they interacted and included her in their world. For once, the tension she carried in her chest wasn't there. This felt like family. Not forced, not fractured, but genuine and safe.

For the first time in years, this felt like home.

She allowed herself a small smile as the warmth of the moment settled over her. It wasn't perfect, and the world outside was still as cruel and relentless as ever—but here, with Aaron and Eric, things felt okay. And for now, that was enough.

As they finished up breakfast, Aaron looked over at Alyssa, his expression curious. "What's your plan for today?" he asked casually.

Alyssa shrugged, taking another bite of eggs. "Uh, apparently nothing. Rick doesn't want me going outside the wall anymore."

Both Aaron and Eric froze, exchanging incredulous looks. Alyssa was always the first one to volunteer for runs, secure the perimeter, or go hunting. The idea of her being benched was almost absurd.

"Why not?" Eric asked, his tone sharp with disbelief.

Alyssa rolled her eyes, setting her fork down. "Says I'm getting too ruthless... or something," she said, her tone dripping with annoyance.

Eric shook his head in disbelief. "Whilst I agree you've done things no one your age should ever have to do... you haven't exactly had a choice. You've kept this place safe. To make you fall back now—" He trailed off, clearly frustrated.

Alyssa shrugged again, leaning back in her chair. "They'll figure that out," she said flatly, though a hint of bitterness lingered in her tone.

Aaron nodded, his gaze steady as he spoke. "Yeah, they will," he said firmly. "You've earned your place out there. Rick might think he's doing the right thing, but he's wrong if he thinks sidelining you is the answer. People will see that."

Alyssa smirked slightly, but the warmth in their words gave her some comfort. "Guess I'll just... stick around here until they do," she said lightly, but there was an edge of defiance beneath her tone.

Aaron gave her a small smile. "You're always welcome with us. But when they come to their senses, just remember who's been in your corner all along," he said with a wink.