My Redneck Savior || D. D.

Bobby Flay's Gourmet Oppossum || 6

Alex's Point of View

The five of us trudge down a never ending road. We've walked most of the day and I'm panting like a dog. "I thought a girl like ye' would be more athletic than this," the archer to my right laughs as he stands beside me while I take a breather.

"Why don't you try walking around with 20 pounds of supplies on your back."

"Give it," he slides the backpack off of my tired shoulders.

"Thanks," He offers me his dirty hand. Gladly, I accept his offer and he helps me up. "I never thought you were the gentleman type."

Daryl pretends to act stunned by that, "Ye'd be surprised what I'd do for a lady. I'm nothin' like my dad and brother. Now they're real @$$*&*#$."

"Your family seems lovely," I sarcastically state as I imagine how Merle and his father would look.

"What about yers'?" It's been a long time since I've seen or came in contact with my family. I wonder if they've made it as far as I have. It would be a slim chance though if they did. Trying my hardest I tried to think them without grieving. Ma was never really a outdoors person, could barley hold a shovel if she tried. But, she was the best mother anyone could ask for; always kind, caring, and supportive. Pa and my older brother on the other hand were quite athletic and I wouldn't be surprised if they'd survived this long. And I'd like to think that they did and that one day I can embrace them once more.

Daryl clears his throat. I assume that it's to avoid the awkward silence. But, when I focus on the landscape again I see a large sign reading 'Raleigh's Trailer Park'. Surrounding the dirt area is a rusty chain fencing. It was better protected than other places I've stayed. But, as we approached the enclosure I become wary. Guards sit atop trailer roofs as they aim their weapons towards the residents.

"Let them in," I barley hear from the other side of the steel gate. Loud thuds and bangs indicate that they are unlocking it. And to be honest, I'm not sure I want to stay to see what's hiding behind it.

We're greeted by an older man. Grey stubble covers his jaw and cheeks. His eyes seemed to be clouded by thick clouds of smoke. "Nice to have you back Rick. Who are your friends?" He asks, an odd smirk on his face. "I'm Chuck by the way." This guy is really creeping me out. I look to Daryl for help.

"Hey, can we just skip the chit chat and go inside," Daryl says plainly pointing towards the entrance with his crossbow. And without hesitation he walks past Chuck and his henchman insolently. He just doesn't follow the rules, I noted to myself. The others soon proceed behind Daryl like ducklings.

We are here and there is no turning back. The gates have been closed. "So, welcome to my humble camp," Chuck starts. "We have a few campers here already, including your friends. There are limited trailers too. Lucky for you though, a trailer just opened up a few days ago. I guess the redneck can have it. That leaves nowhere for you to go pretty lady. What do you think about staying in mine?"

I was at a loss for words, "I-I don't kn-"

"Your not gettin' anywhere near Alex!" Daryl interjects, obviously infuriated by his actions. "She'll stay with me." Then as if to further prove his point, he reaches for my arm. Our fingers intertwine and electricity jolts through my body.

"Alright," defeated, Chuck throws the small key to Daryl. Just as he starts to walk away from us he looks over his shoulder, "Suppers at seven. Don't be late."

"What an @$$&@&*," he mutters to nobody in particular.

I agree, "True that." The others start to go their separate ways. That also leaves Daryl and I alone. Together. Holding hands. How do I get into situations like this? I'm not complaining, it's just awkward. And moments like this make me ill. The wonderful feeling of butterflies turn explosive like nuclear bombs. To accompany that is the excessive thumping of my heart. "So..."