NATE
Jeezus, Dixon!
My reasons for keeping 'Mum' so to speak, on our impending parenthood? Wasn't just out of fear that everyone's concentration would be diverted from far more pressing matters.
But mostly because....it'll only bring home so much forcefully. How much others have lost over the past few weeks.
I so hate being proven right 😧
"It's nice to know....that I won't be doing this on my own" Maggie's voice trailed away.
That paler-than-pale face was engulfed in barely concealed....desolation. And my insides fill with horror.
Because I knew she wasn't just talking about us both being pregnant.
"You never have and you never will be on your own....ever! " I gasped, cupping her face in my palms and giving a desperate little shake until she looked at me.
"Never or ever! Are you hearing me, Maggie Rhee?" She gave a tiny nod back.
Yet, I'm far from convinced that she did....hear me.
Just as Dixon didn't fool me for a single second, when he told me that I did real good. Yup, he might've gotten himself back under some semblance of control again. But he's only hanging on by the tiniest sliver of a fingernail.
I'm apprehensive, shit scared and....torn. Know that Daryl and I have to get away. And quickly, before more lives other than our own are put at risk.
Yet the thought of leaving Maggie when she's in such agony? Is ripping my insides apart.
Staying here while he sets off for this 'Kingdom' isn't an option, either. Even though I know that my presence there isn't going to stop him from whatever action he decides to take.
He's gone too far away now. And I honestly don't know how I can bring him back this time.
No, Nate. You're way past the 'How'....it's more like 'If'.
Daryl was enveloped in bear hugs by Rick and the others as they dished out their congrats.
However, none are being offered to me. In fact, it's almost as if most of them are now going out of their way to avoid being in my presence....for some strange reason? 🥺
Sasha became the icing on my cake of despair, though. Whilst her hugs and gentle kisses were heartfelt, she didn't turn away from me quickly enough. To hide the misery and anger that have recycled their way back.
"I love you, Sash" My petrified whisper wasn't enough to make her respond.
How she knew? I've got no idea. I can only guess that Enid must've somehow felt my distress and indecision.
"I know what you're thinking. But you can't, Nate....you just can't! "
"I can, though. And I will. For you, Maggie and Sasha. I'll be here for them, just like you are always there for me. It's my turn now" She whispered fiercely into my ear.
My answer is filled with just as much vehemence.
"I don't do it because I ever expect anything in kind, Bub. I love...."
"Yes, I know! And that's why I love you back just as much, Nate. Besides, I'll be busy with other things too. Bertie has an old treadle sewing machine, and she's going to teach me how to use it. I'll make some cot blankets for you and Maggie."
"Practice my babysitting skills on her and Sasha while I'm at it."
When she let me go, her narrowing eyes basically announced, 'And that's that....on that!'. Giving me no choice but to concede defeat and hug her tight again.
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Home Is Your Heartbeat ('Home Is' Book Two - Daryl Dixon)
FanfictionSemi-mature. Completed. Book Two picks up immediately from the last chapter of Home is You. Nate is an Aussie girl who was stranded in Georgia during the outbreak. She and fellow traveler Leo joined a group of survivors in Atlanta. Nate got her firs...
