Between Arrows and Hearts - Daryl Dixon

Something new

When they arrived back at the small house the group was staying in, Rick stood by the door, arms crossed and sharp eyes sweeping the area as he waited for their return.

The car came to a stop, and as Glenn killed the engine, the three of them hopped out, popping the trunk to unload the bags they'd brought back.

"You took longer than we agreed." Rick said, his tone carrying that familiar, steady authority.

"Took longer 'cause Cass decided to browse even the handbag section like it was Black Friday." T-Dog accused, carrying two bags as he walked past Rick and disappeared into the house.

"Snitch." Cass shot him a glare, though the corner of her mouth twitched with a grin. "Sorry, Sheriff, but it's been a while since I got to do any shopping. And you had nothing to worry about, we had a strong, brave man, an intelligent, quick-thinking woman... and Glenn."

"Ha ha," Glenn deadpanned, rolling his eyes as he slung the other bag and a backpack over his shoulder. "You're hilarious." He trudged inside, leaving Cass to close the trunk.

Rick stayed put, watching her with that calm-but-weary sheriff look. "There's always somethin' to worry about when Hurricane Casandra rolls through."

Cass narrowed her eyes at him. "Real funny. But you'll be thanking Hurricane Casandra soon enough. I brought back plenty of clothes, including a couple shirts that might fit you. Hate to be the one to tell you, Ricky, but that one you're wearing... is getting stinky."

The leader, despite the seriousness and stress that seemed to overwhelm him these days, smiled. It almost seemed out of place, as it had been a while since anyone had seen it. "Yeah? I'll make sure to change it, Cassie."

With that, he gave her a light nudge on the shoulder —just enough to get her moving— before closing and locking the door behind them.

Once inside the house, Cass paused dramatically, raising her arms as if she were addressing a royal court. "There is nothing to worry about, beloved subjects!" She declared loudly, drawing everyone's attention. "Your incredible, irreplaceable Cass has returned. And I bring with me: Useful things, pretty things, useful and pretty things. Things for the baby, things for the children, things for the ladies..."

She continued listing with exaggerated pride, watching as a chorus of chuckles and amused head shakes filled the room. "Jackets, shirts, pants, belts. Anything that looked remotely useful!"

"We helped too, y'know." Glenn interjected, though he barely got the words out before Maggie leaned over and rewarded him with a kiss on the cheek.

Cass waved a dismissive hand as she walked past him. "Yeah, yeah. They carried the bags." Her grin was unrepentant as she made her way toward Carol, Lori, and Charlotte, who were happily rifling through one of the bags.

Carol pulled out a piece of clothing. It was a weird poncho with earthy tones and a rugged, tribal-like design. She held it up, inspecting the fabric before glancing at Cass. "Is this for Daryl?"

Cass lit up. "Yes! I'm glad someone sees my vision. Glenn and T-Dog thought I was crazy for bringing it."

Carol let out a soft laugh, clearly entertained. "I think he'll like it." She assured her, folding the poncho neatly before handing it back.

"Good." Cass gave an approving nod, scanning the room for the man in question. Her brows furrowed slightly when she didn't see him. "Where is he?"

"Upstairs," Lori answered with a knowing smile. "Keeping watch."

Cass hummed, turning toward the stairs. She didn't even notice Charlotte trailing behind her until the girl slipped ahead, planting herself firmly on the first step and spinning to face her with a mischievous grin.