Side-by-Side

Chapter 3

I awoke before everyone. I knew this because Daryl was still sound asleep next to me, and the moon was still shining in through the window and curtains. I sighed to myself. I slowly unwrapped Daryl's arms from around my waist and went over to the window, and pulled back the curtains.

The sky was still black, and the stars were shining along with the moon. It was difficult to see the end of the driveway, never mind the fringe of the forest, where the threats are. By the moon's position, I'd say it's about two thirty in the morning.

Fucking insomnia.

I ran a hand through my hair and went downstairs. I wasn't sure who was on night watch, but I had a feeling this person was tired. Slowly making my way down the stairs, I strained my eyes to make up the figure in the chair.

The figure was male. There was no outlining of boobs, and the shoulders were very broad. His muscular arms clearly showed as well. He had curly hair on the top of his head, and what looked like to be a beard fit for a caveman. I rolled my eyes, already aware of who the person was.

"Dad?" I whispered. The figure slowly turned his body to look my direction and I heard the flick of a flashlight before the light came on.

His curly brown hair was a mess on top of his head, and his blue eyes shone in the light. His lips twitched into a small smile and he gestured for me to join him.

"What are you doing up?" He asked me. I sat down beside him and rested my head on his shoulder. He closed the flashlight, trying not to waste the battery and I closed my eyes, wishing I could fall asleep.

"I couldn't fall back asleep." I whispered.

"Nightmare?"

"I don't know." I answered.

"How do you not know?" He asked.

"I don't remember very much. I think it was a dreamless sleep." I replied.

"You have too much stress on your shoulders, Carly. It's taking a toll on you." Dad sighed.

"I'm dealing with it." I breathed out. "I don't know how much longer this can go on though."

"What?" Dad questioned. Even in the dark, I could see dad turn his head to me.

"All this." I said, waving my arms around. I could feel it as he tilted his head in confusion.

"This was suppose to be a two day trip. It's been about a week right now. We aren't making it very far, and with three cars, we need to be weary. Everyone is looking to me for guidance, and I don't mind giving it to them, but if I'm going to be disrespected, they can be their own leaders."

"You can't think like that. They are just scared, and they have a right to be. We are out in the open, and we can't expect something. No matter what our instincts say. You are really stressed, not only that but you are also on your period, which means that your moods are going to be everywhere." He said. I chuckled slightly.

"I'm trying my best. I mean, my relationship seems to be on the line. It's almost everyday that we are arguing." I sighed.

I love Daryl, with all my heart. I try my best to show him. I gave him everything I have. Being with Daryl has given me the chance to live a normal life. Well, as normal as life can be considering the circumstances. If we met under different occasions, maybe we'd be better.

"He loves you. He is trying to protect you the best he can. Unfortunately for him, he chose a girl that doesn't pay any mind to what others think about what she does." He said. My jaw dropped.

"I do care." I exclaimed, placing my hand over my heart. "And you know it."

"Yes. You do, but when it comes to doing things. You make yourself do it. You won't make others help. I heard Daryl tell you to bring Glenn with you earlier." Dad sighed. "You didn't bring him."