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"𝐅𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬..."

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.・. .・゜✭・.・✫・゜・. .

Sunny felt good, which was a very strange thing. It was like everything that had happened had been forgotten, she even felt excited to see everyone back at the Kingdom.

They all rode in the small chariot, Judith even gave Sunny a small apology for her plan about seeing Negan. Though Sunny just shrugged it off, she knew the girl had good intentions, but Sunny just wasn't ready for that yet, or ever.

Instead, she just tried to keep her mind clear, that way, she could just enjoy the moment. That's what Daryl had said, she deserved something good for once. 

"If this is shit, can we leave?" Lincoln murmured behind the girl. Sunny wanted to turn around and tell him he can leave on his own, but, today was supposed to be positive, so she just decided to tune him out. 

No thoughts about Lincoln, no thoughts about Negan, no bad thoughts at all. It was going to be a good day.

The creaking gates of the Kingdom groaned open, and a wave of warmth rushed over Sunny. The familiar sight of the bustling courtyard, bright banners fluttering in the breeze, and the sounds of laughter and chatter welcomed them. For a moment, it really did feel like the world outside didn't exist.

As soon as the gates fully opened, Kelly's excited shout cut through the air. Her face lit up, and she sprinted toward Connie, her arms flailing wildly. Sunny watched as Connie's expression softened into a smile, and she stepped down just in time to catch her sister in a tight hug. The rest of Connie's group waved from behind, their smiles wide with relief and joy.

Sunny climbed out of the chariot, her feet landing on the ground with a soft thud. She took a deep breath, letting the warmth of the Kingdom soak into her bones.

Her eyes drifted across the scene, settling on Henry. He was already hobbling away, his limp barely slowing him down. When he spotted Carol, his face broke into a grin, and he fell into her open arms. Carol's hands cradled his face for a moment before pulling him into a tight embrace, her relief evident in every movement.

Sunny's heart squeezed a little at the sight, a bittersweet warmth spreading through her. She knew how much it meant to see the people you loved safe. She shoved her hands into her pockets, her fingers curling tightly around the wooden horse in her pocket.

Around her, people were reuniting, chatting, laughing — the kind of noise she'd missed. It was easy to forget the danger lurking just beyond the gates when moments like this happened.

Everyone was together again, it felt... good.

Sunny took a deep breath, trying to let the warmth of the moment sink in. The chatter and laughter washed over her like a soft wave, and for a second, she almost felt normal. Almost.

She felt a familiar presence by her side, and before she even turned, she knew it was Daryl. He didn't say anything right away, just stood there, his eyes scanning the crowd, keeping watch like always.

"You alright?" He asked, his voice low and gruff.

Sunny nodded quickly, her eyes flicking up to meet his for just a second. "Yeah. I'm good."

Daryl gave her a look — the kind that said he wasn't buying it completely — but he didn't push. He just dipped his head slightly and murmured, "You let me know if it starts feelin' like too much, alright?"

She swallowed hard, her throat tight, but she managed a small smile. "I will."

He grunted, his eyes softening. "Good."

Then Carol walked over as Henry hugged Ezekiel, wrapping her arms around Daryl in a warm embrace. She pulled back with a small smile before turning to Sunny, her eyes softening.

"Hey, Sunny," Carol whispered, her voice gentle. "How are you holding up?"

Sunny melted into the hug, the comfort sinking deep into her bones. "I'm okay," she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper.

When they stepped apart, Carol glanced over at Henry, who was still caught up in his reunion with Ezekiel. "How's he doing?" She asked, her tone filled with motherly concern.

Daryl snorted lightly, crossing his arms. "He's doin' fine. Him and Sunny've been glued together since we left Hilltop."

Sunny's face turned bright red in an instant. "We have not!" She protested, but her voice cracked a little, which only made Daryl's smirk grow.

Carol chuckled, her eyes flicking between the two. "Well, I'm glad he's got good company," she said, her smile kind but knowing. Sunny just looked at the ground, her cheeks still burning as Daryl gave her a small nudge.

Tara joined them, her expression tight and her eyes narrowing slightly when she noticed Lydia standing with the group. The tension was obvious, but Sunny stayed quiet, her hands shoved deep into her pockets. Lydia shifted awkwardly under Tara's gaze, her eyes darting to the ground.

Michonne stepped forward, her voice firm but calm. "Gather the leaders. We need to talk this out."

They moved to the meeting hall, a large space that felt more serious than Sunny expected. The air buzzed with low voices and the creak of chairs as people took their places. Sunny, Judith, Henry, and Lydia sat off to the side, feeling like an audience to something big.

Lincoln didn't stick around. The second they entered the hall, he muttered something about finding Rodney and Gage and slipped out, leaving Sunny with mixed feelings — part relieved, part annoyed.

The meeting began. Michonne, Carol, Ezekiel, Daryl, Tara and others stood at the front, discussing Lydia's fate and what to do about the looming threat of the Whisperers. The room was full of serious faces, heavy decisions weighing on everyone's shoulders.

After what felt like forever, the verdict was given: Lydia would be granted asylum, allowed to stay and live among them. A quiet breath of relief escaped Sunny's lips. Lydia deserved that chance.

But the decision didn't stop there. The leaders agreed that if the Whisperers attacked, the communities would band together, fight as one. No more splitting up and not talking. They'd protect each other, build something stronger.

That also meant they wouldn't have to go off into the woods, hide out somewhere. No, they could actually live in one of the communities. Part of Sunny felt relieved, the other wasn't quite sure. Since they'd been back, only trouble had came. But then again, she had missed so much. She didn't want to miss any more.

On top of everything, it was a concern that the skin freaks would attack Hilltop out of anger, the community being the place they only know about. So, groups of fighters would be going to Hilltop right away, ensuring it was guarded and safe.

Daryl was already packing up his gear, checking his crossbow, getting ready to leave with the others heading to Hilltop. Without a word, Sunny walked over to his side and started tightening the straps on her own bag.

Daryl paused, glancing at her. "What're you doin'?"

"Gettin' ready," she said, trying to sound casual.

He shook his head. "Nah. You're stayin' here."

Sunny's brows furrowed, her grip tightening on the strap. "What? No, I'm comin' with you."

Daryl sighed, standing up straight. "Not this time. You should stay, spend the day at the fair. Have fun. Be a kid for once."

She stared at him, her jaw clenching. "I don't care 'bout the fair. I care 'bout makin' sure everyone's safe."

He crouched down to her level, his eyes softer now. "I know ya do. But you've missed a lot. You deserve a break. You deserve somethin' good, remember?"

Sunny looked away, swallowing hard. She hated feeling like she was being left behind, but a part of her knew he was right.

"Besides," Daryl added, a small smile tugging at his lips, "Henry'll be here. Hang 'round with him."

Her face flushed red, and she shot him a glare. "Cut it out."

He chuckled, ruffling her hair. "Go on, Sun. You'll be alright."

She let out a reluctant sigh, finally nodding. "Fine. But you better come back."

Daryl's smile faded a little, and he met her eyes. "I will. Promise." He raised his pinky, making the girl smile as their fingers intertwined. "You're gonna be alright."

She then watched him walk away, her heart feeling heavy. But as the sounds of the fair buzzed around her, she took a deep breath. Maybe, just maybe, today could be good.

.・. .・゜✭・.・✫・゜・. .

A small, barely noticeable giggle escaped Sunny's lips as she watched Eugene be dunked into water. Everyone was laughing, everyone was enjoying themselves.

Sunny made sure to stick close to Lydia, she knew this was a whole new world for the girl, all she had known was the woods and walkers. Hell, this was new for Sunny, she couldn't imagine what Lydia felt like.

Plus, it didn't make it any easier that uneasy glances, whispers were sent in her direction. Sunny understood just how that felt, so she tried to be there for Lydia as much as she could. She remembered the feeling of being out of place, like everyone was staring, like they were waiting for you to mess up.

"Hey," Sunny said softly, nudging Lydia's arm. "You're okay. They'll get used to it."

Lydia gave a small nod, her fingers twisting the hem of her shirt. "I dunno if I will."

Sunny offered a half-smile. "You will."

Lydia gave her a small, unsure smile as they walked past a group of people who quickly turned away, pretending they weren't staring. Sunny nudged her lightly, offering a reassuring grin.

"Ignore 'em," Sunny said softly. "They don't know anything."

Lydia nodded, but Sunny could see the tension in her shoulders, the way her eyes darted around like she was expecting something bad to happen.

The two were sat on the benches, mostly just people watching. The fair was actually a lot more fun than Sunny had expected, not that she was really involved in the fun, that would just be a little too overwhelming, but still.

Sunny's eyes wandered over the bustling grounds, the bright colors and constant chatter almost making her feel like things were normal again. Almost. Her gaze drifted through the crowd until it landed on Henry.

He was standing near one of the game booths, talking to Addy. The girl's cheeks were flushed, her eyes fixed on Henry with a soft, nervous smile. Addy tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, laughing at something Henry said, her whole face lighting up.

Sunny's stomach twisted, a weird, uncomfortable feeling settling in her chest. Her fingers tightened around the edge of the bench. She tried to look away, but she couldn't. The way Addy leaned just a little closer, the way Henry smiled back — it made something in her ache.

Jealousy. She knew that's what it was, even if she didn't want to admit it. Her jaw tightened, and she quickly looked down at her shoes, forcing herself to take a deep breath. It's stupid to feel like this.

Lydia leaned in closer, her voice low. "Hey," she said quietly, "it's just a conversation. Doesn't mean anything."

Sunny swallowed, keeping her eyes down. "I know," she muttered, but her voice didn't sound convincing, even to herself.

Lydia tilted her head, her own eyes distant for a moment. "People like us... we see things differently," she said. "We're always expecting the worst. But sometimes, things are just simple. And... Henry likes you."

Sunny's head snapped up, her eyes wide. "What?"

Lydia smiled, a small, knowing smile. "It's obvious. I might not know much about this kind of stuff, but I know that much." She shrugged. "That girl's  just... someone who talks to him. But you're the one he looks for."

Sunny's cheeks flushed, and she glanced back at Henry. He was still talking to Addy, but now she noticed his eyes darting around, like he wasn't completely focused. Like maybe he was looking for someone else.

Looking for me?

She swallowed, her heart beating a little faster. "You think so?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lydia nodded. "I know so." She smirked a little. "Now stop looking like you're gonna punch someone."

Sunny let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "I wasn't gonna punch anyone."

Lydia raised an eyebrow, a teasing glint in her eyes. "Sure you weren't."

Sunny laughed softly, some of the tightness in her chest easing. Maybe Lydia was right. Maybe things were simpler than she thought.

"So you're one of us now, huh?" A voice then said, Sunny looked up to see Gage and Rodney walking over, their eyes focused on Lydia. Lincoln was behind them, but he didn't seem to be very focused.

Gage then made himself comfortable, taking a seat facing them. "We're a tight community, y'know? So if you plan on living with us, I hope you don't plan on causing problems."

Sunny's jaw tightened, her fists curling slightly as she glared at Gage. She could feel Lydia shifting uncomfortably beside her, and that only made her angrier.

"Shut the fuck up, Gage," Sunny snapped, her voice sharp enough to make Rodney glance at her in surprise.

Gage snorted, clearly not intimidated. He leaned back, a smug grin spreading across his face. "Of course, you're friends with her. Makes sense, you being Negan's daughter and all."

The words hit her like a slap. Sunny's chest tightened, and for a moment, she was too stunned to respond. The air around them felt heavier, charged with unspoken tension.

Lydia looked at Sunny, concern flashing in her eyes. "You don't have to—"

"No, it's fine," Sunny cut her off, her voice cold. She stood up, glaring down at Gage. "What's your point, huh? You got somethin' to say about me? Or Negan?"

Gage's smirk faltered just slightly, but he held his ground. "Just saying, people don't forget stuff like that. Negan's the reason a lot of people are dead. And you? You're his kid. Makes people wonder if you're anything like him."

Sunny's hands were trembling now, but she refused to let him see how much his words affected her. "You don't know anythin' about him," she said, her voice low but steady. "And you sure as hell don't know anything about me."

Lincoln, who had been quiet up until now, finally stepped forward. "Alright, that's enough, Gage," he said, his tone surprisingly firm.

Gage scoffed, rolling his eyes. "Whatever." He stood up, brushing off his pants. "Good luck fitting in, Lydia. You'll need it."

With that, he turned and walked off, Rodney following close behind.

Sunny sank back down onto the bench, her jaw still clenched. Lydia hesitated for a moment before putting a hand on her arm. "You okay?"

Sunny nodded, though her expression was hard. "I'm fine," she muttered. But inside, her emotions were a storm she couldn't quite control.

God, all she wanted was for today to be okay, to not be reminded of Negan, to just have a clear head. But clearly, that was impossible.

"Bee should've killed her when she got the chance."

Sunny heard the muffled whispers behind her, she turned her head slightly, seeing two Oceanside women watching her, no, judging her.

Sunny's stomach twisted into knots, the words echoing in her head like a cruel taunt. Bee should've killed her. Just hearing it made her feel like she was twelve years old again—scared, confused, and fighting to stay alive when no one else seemed to care. Her throat tightened, a wave of hot anger and hurt surging through her chest.

Her eyes burned, but she refused to let any tears fall. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. How was she supposed to forget the past when it kept getting thrown in her face? All she wanted was one day—one fucking day—where she didn't feel like a target, where she didn't have to remember every mistake, every accusation, every threat.

She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but it wasn't enough. The walls were closing in, and she needed air. Without a word, she stood up abruptly, her feet carrying her away from the bench.

"Sunny?" Lydia's voice was hesitant, but Sunny didn't turn back.

She stormed off, her jaw set, her vision blurred by a mix of rage and frustration. The noise of the fair faded around her, replaced by the pounding of her heart in her ears. She didn't know where she was going; she just knew she had to get away—away from the whispers, the stares, and the memories she was desperately trying to forget.

Why couldn't they just let her be?

Sunny's feet finally stopped moving when she reached a quiet corner behind one of the buildings. The sounds of the fair were muffled now, distant enough that she could breathe. She leaned back against the rough wooden wall, her head tilting back as she closed her eyes. Her chest rose and fell with shaky breaths, each inhale trying to push down the storm swirling inside her.

But it wasn't working.

The memories, the whispers, the anger — it all clawed at her mind.

A soft sound of footsteps made her snap her eyes open. Henry stood there, his brow furrowed, his eyes filled with worry.

"Sunny?" he asked gently, stepping closer. "Are you okay?"

She clenched her fists. "Go away."

He didn't move. "No."

She let out a sharp laugh, more bitter than amused. "Why can't anyone just leave me alone?"

Henry frowned. "Because I'm not gonna leave you alone when something's wrong."

Sunny's frustration bubbled over. She pushed off the wall, spinning around to face him. "You wanna know what's wrong? Fine!" Her voice rose, trembling with emotion. "People keep seein' me as Negan! No matter what I do, no matter how hard I try, they look at me like I'm some kinda monster! Like I don't deserve to be here!"

Her breathing quickened, and the words kept spilling out, faster and faster. "People want me dead, Henry. Dead. And then there's you—just standing there talkin' to Addy, and I don't even know why it's botherin' me so much, but it is! I don't like it! I don't fuckin' understand why I feel like this!"

Her voice cracked, and she took a shaky step closer to him. "I don't get none'a it! I get this weird feelin' around you, and I hate it, Henry, I—"

Before she could finish, Henry stepped forward and leaned in. His hand brushed her cheek, and then his lips pressed softly against hers.

For a second, everything froze — the noise, the anger, the confusion. All Sunny could feel was the warmth of his lips and the pounding of her heart. The storm in her mind quieted, just for a moment. She didn't pull away, didn't say a word—just stood there, her heart pounding as she tried to process what had just happened.

Sunny then pulled back slightly, her eyes wide as she stared at Henry. Her heart was still racing, and her cheeks felt impossibly hot. "What... what the hell was that?" she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Henry took a step back, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "I—I'm sorry. I probably shouldn't have done that," he said quickly, but then he paused, meeting her gaze. "No. You know what? I'm not sorry."

Sunny blinked, her confusion deepening. "What are you talkin' about?"

Henry sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly as if he'd been holding this in for a while. "I like you, Sunny. I mean, really like you. I have for a while now."

Her breath hitched. "You... what?"

"I know you've been through so much," Henry continued, his voice softer now. "And I didn't want to make things harder for you, but... I can't keep it to myself anymore. Every time I see you, I feel like I want to make things better for you, to help you forget all the crap people say about you. And earlier, with Addy—" He shook his head. "She's just a friend, Sunny. But you... you're different. You're not just a friend to me."

Sunny stared at him, completely speechless. She didn't know what to say or even how to feel. All those emotions she'd just exploded about—confusion, anger, that weird feeling around him—they all started making a little more sense.

But still, she couldn't wrap her head around it. "Why?" she finally blurted out. "Why would you like me? I... I ain't good like you."

He smiled a little, a soft, almost shy smile. "Because you are good. You're strong, you're brave, and you care about people even when you don't want to. And you've got this fire in you that doesn't go out, no matter what happens. How could I not like you?"

Suddenly, it clicked. All those weird feelings, the flutter in her chest, the way she got mad when he smiled at someone else—it made sense now. She liked him. She liked Henry just as much as he liked her.

God, how had she not seen it before?

Sunny's mind flashed to those old Disney princess movies she used to watch with her mom and dad. She'd always rolled her eyes at the whole love-at-first-sight thing, the way characters just knew they were meant for each other. She thought it was all stupid, make-believe stuff. But standing here, looking at Henry, she wondered if maybe it wasn't as ridiculous as she thought.

Was this what those movies were talking about? It sure felt like it.

Her cheeks burned even hotter as she realized she'd been staring at him without saying a word. She swallowed hard, her voice coming out small and unsure. "I think... I think I get it now."

Henry tilted his head slightly, his blue eyes searching hers. "Get what?"

Sunny let out a shaky breath, her lips curving into the smallest of smiles. "I get why people fall for that 'love' crap." She glanced down, kicking a loose pebble near her foot. "I guess... maybe I like you too."

It felt weird saying it out loud, like admitting a secret she hadn't even known she was keeping. But as soon as the words left her mouth, something light and warm bloomed in her chest. Relief, maybe. Or happiness. She wasn't sure which.

Henry's grin widened, his eyes soft and full of something Sunny wasn't used to seeing—something that made her heart race. The warmth in her chest spread, her hands suddenly fidgety at her sides. She took a small, unsteady step closer, her breath caught in her throat.

She hesitated, her eyes flicking up to meet his. He wasn't moving, just waiting, like he knew she needed to do this on her own. Her heart hammered in her ears, every nerve in her body buzzing with nervous energy.

Just do it, she told herself.

Taking a shaky breath, Sunny leaned forward, her eyes fluttering shut as her lips brushed against his. It was small and simple, barely more than a whisper of a kiss, but it sent a jolt through her. She pulled back slowly, her cheeks burning, and opened her eyes.

Henry smiled, his face lit up like the sun. And in that moment, everything felt right. The noise of the fair, the whispers, the worries—all of it faded away. It was just them, standing there, smiling like two kids who finally figured out what they wanted.

But happy moments never last.

The warmth was gone, replaced by cold panic. Everything tilted, then—

Darkness.

.・. .・゜✭・.・✫・゜・. .

A sob tore its way through Sunny's throat, she couldn't breathe, couldn't even think straight. All she knew that she was crying, had she stopped crying? No, she couldn't.

She still couldn't see a thing, couldn't even yell out since that gag was still in her mouth, couldn't do anything but cry.

The cold bit into her skin, sharp and unforgiving. Her fingers were numb, tied behind the tree so tight she couldn't move them. Her chest ached with each breath, the sobs coming out broken and shaky. Her face was wet, the tears never stopping, never slowing down.

Everything hurt. Her head, her body, her heart.

Why is this happening?

Her mind spun, memories she didn't want flashing behind her closed eyes. The barn. The people. The screams. Sunny squeezed her eyes shut tighter, like she could block it all out if she just tried hard enough. But it didn't work. It was still there — all of it.

She tried to take a deep breath, but the gag cut it short, choking her. Panic clawed at her throat. She couldn't breathe right. Couldn't scream. Couldn't do anything.

I'm trapped. I'm trapped and no one's coming.

Her whole body trembled, the cold and fear mixing into one awful, endless feeling. She leaned her head back against the tree, the bark rough and biting against her scalp. Her shoulders ached, the ropes biting into her wrists.

Another sob ripped through her.

I want it to stop. I just want it to stop.

The tears kept falling. She couldn't stop them. Didn't want to stop them. Crying was all she had left.

Her breath came out in short, shaky gasps, the cold air burning her lungs. The world was dark, too dark, and everything felt like it was closing in on her.

She wanted to scream. To fight. To do something.

But she couldn't.

She was just... stuck. And alone.

And so, she cried.

Gone. Gone. Gone. Why am I not dead yet? That's all she could think, and god, did she wish for it. Something, anything to end the suffering. It all needed to stop.

Her mind kept spiraling, each thought darker than the last. She wanted to disappear. She wanted the pain, the fear, the cold, to just stop. Why am I still here? The question echoed in her mind, but there was no answer. No comfort.

Her whole body was trembling, the ropes cutting deeper into her wrists with every movement. She shifted slightly, but it only made the pain worse. She gasped, her chest constricting. Every breath felt like a battle, and she was losing.

Why couldn't I be with them? The faces of the people she loved flickered in her mind. Why am I still alive, when they... they're not?

She felt so small, so powerless. The weight of everything was crushing her, every moment stretching longer than the last.

I'm not strong enough for this. I can't do it. I don't want to do it anymore.

Her thoughts spiraled faster, tears continuing to fall, mixing with the dirt on her face. The cold air burned her cheeks, but it didn't make the ache inside go away. It only made it worse, making her feel more alone, more distant from everything she had ever known.

A tremor ran through her body, and she squeezed her eyes shut tighter, trying to block out the world, the sound of the wind, the pain, the thoughts. Anything. She couldn't think anymore. She couldn't feel anymore.

She just wanted to forget.

But the tears wouldn't stop.

The sound of footsteps crunched softly over dead leaves. At first, Sunny didn't want to believe it, didn't dare hope. Her breaths came out in sharp, ragged gasps, her head spinning with fear and exhaustion.

Please, she thought desperately. She cried out, a muffled, broken plea escaping past the gag. She didn't care who it was. Didn't care if they were here to hurt her. Just... end it. Please, just end it.

But then—

"Sun? Sun, darlin'?!"

Her body tensed. The voice cut through the fog in her mind. Rough, familiar, filled with panic and urgency. She knew that voice. Her breath hitched, tears spilling even harder.

Daryl.

The blindfold was tugged off quickly, and even the dim light made her eyes squeeze shut. The gag was next, and suddenly she could breathe. She gasped in huge, shuddering breaths, her mouth trembling as sobs poured out of her. Her shoulders shook violently, her body collapsing forward until strong hands caught her.

"Hey, hey, I got ya," Daryl's voice cracked, his hands gently but firmly holding her face, brushing the tears and dirt from her cheeks. "I'm here, Sun, baby. I'm here."

Her eyes finally fluttered open, blurry and red-rimmed. Daryl's face swam into view, his own eyes glassy with emotion, his jaw tight. His hands didn't let go, grounding her, keeping her from slipping away completely.

She heaved, her chest rising and falling as the sobs kept coming. "D-Daryl..." her voice broke apart, barely more than a whisper. The weight, the fear, everything was too much.

He pulled her into his arms, untying the ropes from her wrists with quick, shaking fingers. As soon as they were free, she clung to him, her fists gripping his vest like it was the only thing keeping her together.

Daryl held her tight, his arms wrapped around her trembling frame. His hand moved to the back of her head, his fingers threading gently through her hair as if he could shield her from everything that had happened.

But when he finally leaned back to look at her, his eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. Sunny's face was streaked with dirt and tears, but it was the smears of dark, dried blood that froze him in place. It clung to her hands, her clothes — too much blood.

He cupped her face, his thumb brushing over a dried streak on her cheek. "Sun... what happened?" His voice was low, shaking with dread. "Whose blood is this?"

She tried to answer, her mouth opening, but nothing came out. Her lips trembled violently, her eyes filling up again. A strangled noise escaped her throat — half a sob, half a gasp — but no words would form.

"Hey, s'okay," Daryl murmured, his brows knitting together. "You don't gotta say nothin' right now, alright?" His heart ached at the hollow, terrified look in her eyes.

Suddenly, Michonne's voice cut through the haze, sharp and urgent. "Siddiq!"

Daryl's head snapped up, his grip on Sunny tightening. He turned and saw Michonne crouched by a figure just a few feet away. Siddiq. His hands were bound,blindfolded just like Sunny had been. 

But, as soon as he was untied, his main focus was to show them what waited at the top of hill. He began to lead them, pointing as he staggered. Daryl looked down at the crying girl in his arms, "Can you walk?" He asked softly.

Sunny's head jerked up, her eyes wide with terror as she clutched at Daryl's vest. She shook her head violently, tears streaming down her face. Her sobs grew louder, ragged and broken.

"No... no... please..." she choked out between gasps, her fingers tightening around his vest until her knuckles turned white. "I-I can't... I can't see it again."

Daryl's brows furrowed, confusion and worry etched deep into his face. "Sun, what's up there? What did you see?" His voice was low, cautious, but she only shook her head harder, fresh sobs wracking her small body.

"I c-can't... don't make me..." she whispered, her face buried against his chest, trying to disappear into him.

He looked up, meeting Michonne's eyes, his own filled with uncertainty. He didn't know what was waiting on that hill, but whatever it was had shattered Sunny into pieces. He glanced at Siddiq, who was staring ahead, hollow-eyed, his face pale and strained. Siddiq raised a trembling hand, pointing up the hill again.

The small group of them began to walk up the hill, and just moments later, the sound of other cries mingled with Sunny's. Daryl held onto her tighter, his fingers running through her hair.

"I'm here, Sun," he said quietly, resting his chin against the top of her head. "You're safe now, I promise. Whatever it is, we'll deal with it. You don't gotta face it alone."

But even as he said it, a deep pit of dread settled in his stomach. Whatever lay on that hill had already left scars too deep for words.

Ahead, Michonne paused, her shoulders visibly tense as she crested the top of the hill. She stopped in her tracks, her hand flying to her mouth. "Oh my God," she whispered, her voice shaking. Siddiq stood beside her, his knees buckling slightly as if the weight of it all might pull him to the ground.

Daryl's stomach twisted. He looked down at Sunny again. She had gone quiet, her sobs now only soft, hiccuping breaths. She didn't need to say anything for him to know. Whatever they were seeing, she had already lived it.

"I'll be right back," Daryl whispered, his hand lingering on Sunny's shoulder as he gently passed her to a nearby tree trunk, leaning her against it. "Stay here, alright? I ain't goin' far."

She didn't respond, only curling into herself, her hands trembling in her lap.

Daryl stood, his steps heavy as he approached the hill's crest, his pulse thundering in his ears. "What is it?" He asked, his voice gruff as he moved closer to the group.

But as his eyes lifted to the scene ahead, the words caught in his throat. His body froze, his fists clenching as a wave of shock and anger crashed over him. He understood now why Sunny couldn't go back. Why Siddiq looked hollow.

"Jesus Christ," he muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible as he stared at the horror that awaited them.

There was no escaping the horror Sunny had witnessed, no going back to who she was before — and Daryl could see that now, clear as day.

.・. .・゜✭・.・✫・゜・. .