TWD: The Bounty Hunter (Clementine X Male Reader Book 2)

Respite-10

It's cold. The Sun has gone down and taken any warmth that was left, with it. Now, you're standing on top of the watchtower, trying not to focus on the temperature. You do wish Clementine was with you to share some of her warmth. She's currently curled up under a blanket inside, sleeping like a baby.

The group that went to the Rest Stop should be back by now. You took watch just before sunset and have been on watch for hours. Did something happen to them? Or, are they just taking their time? You hope it is the latter. You don't want to have another situation already.

Ruby: Hey!

You turn and look below the watchtower. Ruby is standing by the ladder.

You: Hi.

Ruby: Go inside. I'll take watch.

You: It's fine, I got it.

Ruby: No, you need to go spend time with Clementine.

You: She's asleep.

Ruby: So? Go sleep with her.

You: I will.

Ruby: When the others get back, none of them will want to take watch. I'm your only option.

You groan as you resign.

You: If you want to stay up all night in the cold, be my guest.

Ruby: You should be thanking me.

She grabs the ladder and starts her ascent.

Ruby: You should take every opportunity you get to spend time with Clem.

She gets closer to the top and you help her.

Ruby: Thank you. After all, you don't know how much time you have left together.

You already know how it feels to lose her. You won't be going through it again... Especially now that Marina depends on you.

You: There's a rifle right there.

You point to it.

You: But, if something happens and you have time, come get me... Oh, and where's Marina?

Ruby: Asleep in the medical room.

You: Thanks.

Ruby: Have a good night.

You: You too.

You grab the ladder and make your way down to the ground. After you make it, you have to fix your jacket.

Ruby: Hey, I think they're coming.

You: Are you sure?

Ruby: No, but there's two set of headlights.

You stand at the gate, waiting for her to give you the all clear. You don't want to open it unless it's them.

You listen to the hum of the approaching engines with anticipation. The noise grows louder, as they get closer. Their headlights turn on the school and the light floods through the gate. You cover your face as the light shocks you after being in the dark.

Ruby: It's them!

You smile, you're happy they're ok. They must have just taken their time.

They turn off the headlights and you uncover your face. You open the gate and peak outside to see them unloading. Brooklyn was driving one car, and Stanley was driving the other. You walk out to greet them and make sure everything is ok.

On your way, Stanley and Maren walk past you without saying anything. You chalk it up to being too tired.

You: Any problems?