Abide » Alden

9. Luck

I sit with Maggie in her office. She entertains Herschel and I sit in pure boredom. We're waiting for Michonne to come over the radio because Maggie said that Michonne wanted to ask me something.

The radio comes to life and Michonne's voice is heard: "Alexandria to Hilltop. This is Michonne requesting Paesyn. Over."

I pick up the radio and hold down the button, "This is Paesyn... over."

"I've been doing some work with blueprints and... other stuff. I was wondering if you would like to come over and help me out. Over," Michonne responds.

I half smile, "Sure thing. When do you want me? Over."

"Within the next couple of days. It's gotten crazy here in Alexandria. Over," Michonne answers."

I nod my head despite the lack of visual connection, "Alright. I'll be there tomorrow. Over."

"Thanks. Over," Michonne signs off.

She has been quite busy with Rick being dead and all. Even after six weeks it hasn't settled down yet.

I wonder what that other stuff is that Michonne was wanting me for. It might be the reason she didn't ask for anyone with more experience.

Maggie turns to me, "Can you do something for me while you're there?"

I get an idea of what she means. "Sure," I reluctantly respond.

"Can you go see Negan for me? I just want to know—" She starts.

I interrupt, "You want the key."

She hesitates before responding, "No. I went to kill him. He was so pathetic. He wasn't worth killing. I want to make sure it wasn't an act."

I nod, "Okay. Should I radio it in or?"

"Just wait till you come back."

—

I pat my mare's neck. My stallion was eaten by walkers. I loved that horse.

I mount my horse and on my way to the gate, I pass by Alden.

"Hey, where are you going?" he asks.

I shrug, "Alexandria. I'll be back in a few days."

"By yourself?" Alden asks, his eyebrows furrowed.

I casually answer, "Yeah."

I see the concern on Alden's face and he acts like he's about to say something but nothing comes out of his mouth.

"Do you want to come?" I ask, surprising myself.

He looks up at me and without hesitation he answers, "Yes. I mean, um, sure."

I laugh and dismount the horse. We walk back to the stables together.

"Why are you going to Alexandria?" he asks with pure curiosity.

I summarize Michonne's request and leave out Maggie's, "My Dad was a construction worker and contractor. I've picked up a few things and she wants my help."