A/N: Welcome to the last *chapter* chapter of The Doctor :')
(wrote that with tears streaming down my face btw)

Don't worry, there is still a fun bonus chapter and MANY epilogues after this! Not to mention the AUs I have coming as well as Judith's and Louise's books, which continue the plot in this little universe I've created :)

This is simply the last chapter of Rick and Cass's story, for *this* book. As always, I hope you wonderful readers enjoy <3

___

- Cass's POV -

"Why would I help you?"

Negan's already heavily bruised face drains completely of color as I utter that sentence, the various shades of his bruises casting an eery pattern across his skin.

He blinks, his chest heaving in confusion like a panicked animal caught in a trap. "What're... why are you-" Negan begins, his voice trailing off, the words faltering under the weight of his disbelief.

"You mean, why aren't I trembling in fear?" I question bitterly, narrowing my eyes with a deadly sarcasm, irritation thrashing within me. "Why aren't I that terrified little wife you remember?" I continue coldly, a venomous edge to my words as the memories of his torment flood through me.

Negan's eyes widen, his brows furrowing in bewilderment as he struggles to comprehend the reality I'm unfolding. "But-" he stammers, the word catching in his throat, his confusion palpable.

I glance over my shoulder at Rick, standing by the door, a smirk tugging at the corners of my mouth as I revel in Negan's bewilderment. "Do you see how good my lying has gotten? He had no idea," I breathe with genuine amazement, making a smirk pull at the corner of Rick's mouth, pride glimmering behind his beautiful eyes.

"But you..." Negan's voice trails off, drawing my attention away from Rick. The haze of pain seems to cloud Negan's mind as his desperate gaze searches my face for answers. "You helped when everyone got sick," he mutters dumbly, his words seeming to be a feeble attempt to grasp onto something amidst his shattered reality.

I have to fight back a laugh, cocking my head to the side and raising my eyebrows. "Oh come on Negan. I thought you were smarter than that." I respond lowly with a smirk, relishing the way that Negan's eyes widen, rendering him momentarily speechless. After enduring him being the loudest, most obnoxious person on the damn planet, it's a nice change.

Negan's mouth parts in a question that doesn't seem to be able to escape him, blinking at me in utter bewilderment. I lean in slightly, squinting my eyes as they rake over his bruised features, tainted deep purple, red, and slightly green.

"It wasn't the goddamn flu, Negan. I killed them," I reveal slowly, my voice dropping into a threatening whisper, watching as a wide range of emotions rip through Negan's features. His eyes flutter with shock, his mouth dropping open- wincing in pain as he does.

Then his expression contorts with outrage, his confusion quickly giving way to a fiery rage, his eyebrows furrowing deeply. "H-How could you possibly have done that?" he demands wildly, his voice laced with indignation, his chest heaving.

Rolling my eyes with exasperation, I have to look away from his irritating face, its amalgamation of bruises and swelling contrasting grotesquely against the clean pillow of the bed he's strapped to.

"It doesn't matter how I did it. I just want you to know it was me," I explain smoothly, a surge of satisfaction coursing through me as Negan's eyes darken with rage at my words.

"You poisoned Derek, my boy?" Negan bellows, his voice rising with fury, his fists clenched in frustration as he struggles against his restraints.

The insinuation sends fierce anger whipping through me and clenching my jaw, I slam my mug onto the nearby counter, making Negan flinch. "Absolutely not. He got sick because his deadbeat father shut him in a goddamn factory that destroyed his immune system. Derek didn't drink a drop of the medication, unlike your little soldiers," I grit out fiercely, my anger boiling over at the accusation of hurting an innocent child. A child that I saved.

Negan thrashes against his restraints, emitting a guttural growl of frustration, his features tainted red. "Why?" he demands through clenched teeth, his bloodshot eyes glaring back at me.

I look at him for a moment, my brows knitted with confusion at his genuine lack of understanding.

"Did you not tell him?" I ask Rick calmly, looking over my shoulder at the man I love. Rick tilts his head to the side with a slow exhale, a knowing smirk playing at the corners of his wonderful mouth as he looks back at me, not bothering to glance at Negan.

"Oh, I told him," Rick responds simply, crossing his arms across his chest, something in his expression making my heart skip a beat.

I send Rick a fond look, love burning in my chest momentarily before I turn back to Negan, immediately dropping my expression of love. Hardening my features, I meet Negan's dark hazel eyes, searching his genuinely confused expression for any trace that he's fucking with me.

"Do you... not remember?" I ask, my voice dripping with amusement and my mouth turning up with delight.

"Remember what." Negan manages to get out, his voice strained with pain as he grimaces slightly, the effects of his injuries evident.

My grin widens as I lean in closer, savoring the moment of revelation, letting my eyes slowly rake over his swollen face painted with a watercolor rainbow of contusions.

"The man I love. And before you say it- no, it's not you," I add smugly, eliciting a huff of irritation from Negan, his jaw clenched.

"I know about Daryl," Negan mutters bitterly, making me snort before I can help it, prompting Negan's eyes to flick to mine.

"Daryl?" I feign utter confusion, enjoying toying with the fucker as he did to me and my family for months. "No, Daryl's like a brother to me," I explain simply, furrowing my brows as Negan just blinks at me.

"What the hell are you talking about? Back at-"

"See, that wasn't a letter to Daryl that you found." I interrupt him calmly, making Negan snap his mouth shut, wrath flashing behind his eyes.

I lean in, a smirk pulling at the corner of my mouth at the thought of finally telling him this.

"It was to Rick. My husband." I reveal slowly, staring unflinchingly into Negan's eyes. Then I lift my left hand and wiggle my ring finger, showing off the ring Rick gave me, its diamonds sparkling in the light.

I suddenly realize that Rick had put the ring on my marriage hand this morning- not the engagement one. I must've been too absorbed in the shock at finding out my dad let Rick call him Nathan. Huh.

My thoughts are interrupted as Negan's eyes widen, his face paling once again before a sudden realization seems to wash over him, his expression morphing into pure horror. I grin with satisfaction.

Looks like someone's memory came back.

Negan's gaze darts past me to Rick, fear flickering behind his eyes before he swings around, a shocked cough escaping him as he catches sight of his amputated arm, the gruesome reminder of his beating.

"Ah, there it is," I murmur condescendingly with a satisfied smirk as I lean back, sharing a knowing glance with Rick. He shakes his head with amusement, his grin wide and eyes crinkled with pride as they look back at me.

"You-" Negan pants, his voice strained with desperation as he fights his restraints. "You're both fucking crazy," he grits out, his words dripping with venom as he struggles uselessly against the binds holding him down.

I let out a disappointed sigh, my gaze hardening as I shift my focus from the handsome face of the man I love and back to Negan.

"You know, I expected a more creative response, with all the little phrases you come up with," I point out, my voice dripping with boredom as I glare at his disgusting face. "But that's because you were on top before, right? And now you're dog shit. You have no Sanctuary. No Saviors. No power. You're nothing." I spit, each word punctuated with a seething fury that echoes in the tense air between us.

Negan slowly meets my gaze, anger deepening the rough lines and swollen bruises on his face. Something flickers in his eyes, a cruelness that sends a flinch of familiar discomfort down my spine. "Such harsh words from the woman carrying my baby." he pants, his brows curled together in a failing attempt at innocence, what looks to be a painful smile pulling across his mouth.

The anger that whips through me is blinding, a red-hot iron cracking the last remaining piece of restraint I had been holding onto.

In one quick move, I snatch his throat and squeeze the tender flesh so tight the tendons in my wrist pop at the exertion. Negan's bloodshot eyes flare, immediately choking and thrashing under my iron grip, his body convulsing wildly. But I stand solidly, my muscles aching as I squeeze tighter, my resolve unyielding as I grit my teeth in protective rage.

Leaning forward smoothly, I glower back into his panicked eyes, my voice low and menacing. "You don't talk about him. Ever." I growl, anger spitting from my words like poison. "I was pregnant I even met you, you piece of shit," I hiss threateningly, my parental instincts thrashing within me, not being able to help my hand with a mind of its own as it continues to squeeze more.

"He's mine. He's Rick's. He'll never be yours." I snarl, asserting my authority with a ferocity that leaves no room for argument. I'm sure I must look unrecognizable in the way I feel my fierce rage contorting my expression.

Negan nods quickly, the muscles in his throat contracting as he desperately tries to draw in air. "You're pathetic," I inform him blankly, my tone devoid of any sympathy as I watch his lips turn a sickly shade of blue, the consequences of his actions finally catching up to him.

Then, just as abruptly as I grabbed him, I let go, stepping back. My jaw clenched, I glance back at Rick, finding him glaring at Negan, closer to us than before. His chest is rising and falling steadily with his retrained anger, his brows lowered and his mouth pulled down in pure fury.

Rick's wonderful blue eyes flick to mine, searching my expression momentarily, checking if I'm alright. I nod slightly, assuring him I'm okay despite the storm of protective instinct raging within me. Rick's gaze softens slightly, a silent exchange of understanding passing between us before his eyes harden again as Negan speaks up.

"So, little Judith must be yours too, huh? Must'a been torture to hear that I saw her and held her while you were playing wife," Negan's voice slithers out behind me, his words dripping with malice, each syllable a venomous sting that I feel in my very being.

The arrogant smirk I can hear in his voice sends a chill down my spine, a visceral reaction to the mention of my daughter that plunges me into an abyss of cold rage, extinguishing the momentary warmth I had felt looking at Rick.

Rick's eyes widen slightly with anger, his jaw clenching in response to Negan's blatant taunt, his blue eyes turning dark. I slowly turn to Negan, my chest heaving with barely contained anger, the flames of rage licking at the edges of my control, begging me to lose it.

"What." I snap impatiently, my voice a low growl that reverberates with suppressed fury, my gaze searing into Negan's discolored face.

"She's adorable," Negan smirks- smirks- his tone dripping with condescension, his grotesque mask of superiority infuriating me further.

Inhaling and exhaling slowly, I close my eyes and tilt my head to the side, trying to control the torrent of pure rage thrashing within me.

He wants to do this? Okay. We're doing this.

I just nod to myself, my mouth downturned with disgust.

"Cass," Rick says, his voice laden with concern, but I can't look at him, not when I'm this consumed with rage.

Instead, I grab my knife from my belt, the weight of it familiar in my grip before I slam the hilt into the gash on Negan's flesh. A sickened delight curls in my chest at Negan's raw howl of agony as fresh blood soaks his bandages, undoubtedly ripping a suture or two.

My chest heaving with maddening rage, I twist the handle cruelly, digging into his only just healing wound. With my heart racing and chest heaving, I watch as Negan's eyes flutter- his pain clearly threatening to knock him out, making me withdraw the knife abruptly and slip it back into my belt.

Stepping closer to Negan, who now writhes and gasps in a pathetic display of anguish, I meet his gaze with unyielding resolve.

"You're un-fucking-believable," I sigh, my voice surprisingly calm. "To taunt the only person capable of keeping you alive. I'm starting to think I should let my real husband finish off what he started," I breathe threateningly, watching as Negan's pained expression turns his attention to me.

"But I have plans for you. I'm not going to kill you like you clearly want me to. Death is too fucking easy." I snap harshly, watching with grim satisfaction as shock flickers across Negan's face, his facade of arrogance crumbling.

He didn't think I would realize he was trying to get us to put him out of his misery. Idiot.

"'Plans'?" Rick asks, drawing my attention as I turn to face him, making me realize that he's right behind me now. He looks at me, seemingly unphased by my brutality, confusion furrowing his brow at my words.

My chest heaves with the weight of my resolve as I meet Rick's gaze, my heart pounding in my ears. "It's... crazy," I admit with a wince, making Rick's brows furrow further, tilting his head to the side curiously.

"But just- hear me out."

___

Rick sighs heavily, the weight of what I just told him seeming to settle on his shoulders as he runs his hand through his curls. I watch him nervously, the tension in the room palpable as I anxiously wait for his response, my bottom lip caught between my teeth in a futile attempt to subdue my growing unease.

As we stand in the kitchen, my back protests against the strain of my position, a dull ache radiating from the small of my back where I'm leaning against the countertop. Across from me, Rick is still deep in contemplation, his gaze fixed on the empty floor as he mulls over the plan I just laid out before him, my words hanging heavy in the air between us.

Negan's still in the same room as before, locked in and tied up. He was starting to get really fucking annoying so we knocked him out. And I didn't want to waste any of our meds to do it, so I'm sure his concussion is probably going to get worse.

Oh well.

"Say something," I plead quietly, making Rick pause, his head slowly lifting to meet my gaze. His eyes which have compelled me since the beginning search my expression thoughtfully, his mouth pressed in a fine line.

"It's... bold," Rick puts it delicately, making me smile slightly despite myself before cringing slightly.

"I know. But you see where I'm coming from, right?" I ask hopefully, my heartbeat quickening as I mindlessly fidget with my ring. There's something soothing about the harsh diamonds poking my fingertips as I roll them back and forth.

Rick nods thoughtfully, a small smile of understanding cracking through his thoughtful expression. "I do. Trust me." he affirms, his voice soft yet resolute, "I just don't know how the rest of them will feel. Especially Sasha and Rosita. You saw how they reacted before," Rick points out, making me inhale slowly with dread. I had the same thought.

"Yeah, we'll have to figure out a way to handle that." I breathe, my chest tightening slightly, a pang of guilt gnawing at my conscience as I grapple with the implications of my plan. "We have to," I breathe.

The silence that follows is so heavy, it feels like a physical weight pressing down on my chest, suffocating me with its intensity. I clench my eyes shut, conflicted with the tumult of emotions churning within me.

The thought of letting go, of watching Negan's death and knowing that it's all finally over, tugs at the corners of my mind like a persistent whisper. But deep down, I know I can't bring myself to do it, to let him go so easily after everything he's done.

As I'm lost in my turmoil, Rick's strong arms envelop me in a reassuring embrace, his warmth a comforting balm against the cold uncertainty that threatens to consume me. I lean into him instinctively, seeking solace in the familiar contours of his arms.

"We'll figure it all out," Rick assures me, his tone soft and comforting as he speaks into my hair. I nod in silent agreement, finding comfort in his unwavering support, knowing that we'll get through this together, as we always have.

Swallowing hard against the lump that forms in my throat, I allow his comforting presence to envelop me, drawing strength from his quiet resolve. We stand there for a while, entwined in a wordless embrace.

Rick's voice, a soft murmur against my head, interrupts the quiet. "You called me your husband. Twice," Rick murmurs under his breath, his words tinged with amusement. I pull back slightly, meeting his gaze sheepishly, my heart pounding away in my chest. 

Those calming blue irises are trained on me, fondness crinkling at the edges as he awaits my response. "I may have gotten in the habit of calling you that for a few months," I admit sheepishly, pursing my lips to hide my nervous smile.

The grin that pulls across Rick's face leaves me momentarily breathless from the way his entire expression floods with love. I gulp, hope fluttering in my chest that he isn't scared off.

"I've lost count of how many times I've called you my wife," Rick calmly confesses, making my grin fully break through my exterior, my heart flooding with comfort at his words.

Relief surges through me as I bite my lip through my broad smile, tilting my head slightly in adoration. "And you put my ring on the wrong hand. I see we're just as bad as each other," I murmur playfully, making Rick nod slightly, blinking slowly as he gazes back at me.

Without hesitation, Rick leans in, brushing his lips against mine before pulling me fully into a warm, loving kiss that says more than words could. My eyes flutter closed as I kiss him back, my arms looping around his neck pulling myself closer to him.

Everything else going on outside of this seems to fade into insignificance. The world outside our embrace melting away as we lose ourselves in each other, finding solace and refuge in the simple act of being together.

It's just me and him.

Me and Rick.

However, our moment is abruptly broken by an unexpected voice to our left. "Hey guys-oh Jesus," the voice curses, laden with shock.

I quickly pull away from Rick, my cheeks burning with embarrassment as I turn to face the source of the interruption. It's Carl, standing in the main room, his single eye wide with surprise as he takes in the scene before him.

Shit.

Attempting to regain my composure, I press my lips into a firm line, my embarrassment palpable as I meet Carl's gaze. Rick, on the other hand, seems unfazed, his demeanor calm and collected as he addresses his son.

"What's wrong?" Rick inquires, his tone steady as he assesses Carl's reaction. I blink at him in quiet amazement. Does anything phase him?

Carl sighs, his eye focusing turning to his father. "Apart from seeing that, nothing," he replies quickly, amusement tugging at his mouth as my cheeks heat more. "Nathan and a few others made dinner and I was sent to get you guys. Unfortunately," he adds with a teenage grimace that has me ducking my head, hiding my smirk.

"Sorry Carl, let's go," I breathe, not being able to hide my smile as warmth spreads through my chest. Because despite the awkwardness, there's nowhere I'd rather be Rick chuckles softly under his breath, grabbing my hand as we follow Carl out.

The cool night air prickles my skin as we walk into the dark street, following Carl to our neighboring house- the one Sophia, Carol, and a few others live in. Laughter spills from its brightly lit windows, a beacon of warmth that makes my heart clench.

Happiness unfurls fully in my chest as we walk into the warm house, greeted by the sight of almost everyone gathered inside, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the lamps, delicious smells wafting from the kitchen.

There my dad, Tyreese, Carol, and Sophia are finishing up with the dinner, grinning as they notice us walking in. An adoring smile cracks across my face seeing my dad helping in the kitchen with a fully asleep Judith in his arms.

Meanwhile, Beth, Enid, and Noah are setting the long table in the dining room as well as a small additional table to the side.

Perched on nearby barstools and already a bottle of wine or two in, are Rosita, Sasha, and Louise, who seem to be getting along far better than yesterday. I can't help but notice the subtle strain in Louise's smile and the quicker pace of her drinking, making a pang of concern tug at my heart.

Despite the ache in my chest at the sight and the reminder of what we've lost, seeing Maggie, Michonne, Glenn, Denise, and Tara gathered on the couches filled me with overwhelming joy. The happiness is almost suffocating seeing everyone together again like this, our little makeshift finally together again.

"Cass!" Maggie calls, drawing my attention as she rushes over to envelop me in a warm hug. Emotion surges through me as I let go of RIck's hand to hug my dear friend, savoring the familiar comfort of her hugs.

"Maggie," I breathe through my grin, closing my eyes with contentment. My heart aches as the last time we hugged was also the last time I saw her, right after she told me she was pregnant. And right before I went on the 'dry' run.

As I pull away, my gaze drops down to her pronounced bump, a rush of excitement and happiness flooding through me. "You're so pregnant!" I enthuse, unable to contain my delight, making Maggie beam back at my response as her husband comes up for a hug of his own.

Despite seeing Glenn yesterday, I didn't get a chance to hug him, so I take the opportunity now. As we embrace tightly, a wave of gratitude washes over me that I was wrong in thinking Negan killed him. I couldn't imagine the heartbreak Maggie would be going through without him. The mere thought of him never getting to see his baby makes my heart sink momentarily.

When I pull away, fondness crinkles at the edges of my eyes, Glenn grinning back at me as I remember the first time I met him. Not knowing at the time that the guy I chose to hold my knife against would become such a dear, dear, friend.

"Are you excited?" I ask the pair, as I step back to Rick's side, my gaze drifting back to Maggie's bump, making them nod.

"We're having a boy too," Maggie tells me eagerly as if she's been dying to say it all day, her hand resting on her belly, making me grin fondly

"Really?" I breathe through a laugh of delight, my eyebrows raised, happiness fluttering through me at the prospect of our boys growing up together. A sudden flicker of determination flashes through me to make sure that it does happen.

"Hershel," Glenn confirms with a proud smile, making me turn at him, my brows crinkling together as emotion flinches through me, my smile falling. Hershel.

Swallowing back the lump in my throat, I glance back at Maggie who's looking at her husband, blinking away tears in her eyes as she nods in confirmation. "Sounds like the perfect name," I murmur, blinking away tears of my own.

"It is," Rick confirms warmly, making me glance at him fondly, trying and failing to blink away my tears this time.

"Damn pregnancy hormones," I mutter as I brush away the fallen tears with an embarrassed chuckle. Maggie laughs knowingly in response, linking her arm in mine as she guides me to the kitchen, our conversation shifting to how much our sons have decided to ruin our emotional stability.

As I attempt to help with dinner before being ushered away, I catch sight of Daryl walking through the side door, bringing in a wave of the cool night air with him. His reluctant smile tugs at the corners of his lips as he balances the new wine bottles in his hands, earning cheers from the trio of women at the bar.

Tilting my head with amusement, I watch as Louise's eyes linger on Daryl's bare arms as he passes them the bottles of red wine. Her subtle blush doesn't escape my notice as she watches his muscles flex with each movement, Sasha and Rosita eagerly leaning forward to pour some fresh wine.

A smile pulls across my face, delight fluttering through me as Daryl nervously glances at Louise before quickly averting his gaze and heading over to Rick who, annoyingly, was allowed to assist with dinner unlike myself.

"You know, I'm on your side, by the way, I think you're a great cook," Sophia's sudden voice interrupts my musings, making my attention snap over to her face, my heart exploding with fondness.

Sophia, the girl who's the very reason I'm here today, smiles back at me, all grown up. Her ginger hair which was once to her shoulders is now much longer, in waves that trail past her collarbones. And her once big brown eyes seem to fit her face more as they crease with happiness, beaming back at me.

"Soph!" I explain warmly, stepping forward and hugging her tightly, eliciting a joyful laugh from her as she hugs me back. I close my eyes as I pull her close, happiness washing over me, overwhelmed by gratitude for her.

As we part, I study her pretty face, confusion flicking through me at her previous compliment. "Why did you say I'm a great cook? We both know that is not true," I chuckle, earning a wide grin from Sophia.

"Hey, those beans we had that first night were good," Sophia says defensively, her grin wide as she crosses her freckled arms over her chest, a playful glint in her eyes.

I tilt my head to the side, a surge of adoration warming my heart. "Right. The beans from out of a can." I remark with dry amusement, prompting a proud nod from Sophia, her grin unwavering.

I look at her for a moment, gratitude surging through my chest. "I'm so happy I found you, kiddo. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here," I murmur softly, watching as emotion flickers in Sophia's eyes.

Without her, I wouldn't have found this incredible group of people that have become my family. I wouldn't have found the love of my life or the children I cherish as if they're my own.

"I wouldn't be here either if it weren't for you," Sophia responds, her soft words forming a lump in my throat and tears spring to my eyes. I can still vividly picture her in the river, surrounded by three walkers, screaming and crying out for help.

God knows what could've happened to her if I didn't happen to hear her screams.

Sophia's eyes widen in concern at my sudden emotional change but I smile, dismissing it quickly. "Don't worry. It's the baby, little shit is ruining my emotions," I assure her through my slightly shaking voice.

Sophia smiles in understanding before pulling me into another, warmer hug. I laugh, blinking away the tears and hugging her back, feeling incredibly grateful that we were able to save each other.

It isn't long before we're all at the table, digging into the delicious food our family made for us, enjoying each other's company. The air is full of laughter, conversation, clinking of silverware on plates, and swishing of drinks.

Glancing around the table as we eat, contentment washes over me at the comforting sight of my family's smiling faces. Even at the kid's table, they're laughing loudly, seeming to all be getting along. Noah and Beth are grinning down at Judith in Beth's lap, Carl playing airplane with Judith's spoonful of food. Enid and Sophia burst into laughter as Carl's overenthusiastic airplane ends with Judith's carrot mush landing on his hair.

Happiness clenches my chest as Sophia and Enid hold onto each other, crying with laughter as Carl groans with disgust. It's a relief to see that they didn't let a boy get between their friendship.

Taking a moment to savor the simple joy of being surrounded by loved ones, I make a silent vow to myself never to take this for granted again.

Because being here, with everyone, is everything. Even on the road when we had nothing, we had each other, which made it bearable.

I blink away my sudden and ridiculous tears resurfacing yet again, grabbing my glass of water to distract myself, looking up at the ceiling. At the sensation of a warm hand on my knee, I lower my water glass and glance to my left to see Rick watching me knowingly, his eyes soft.

Meeting his knowing gaze, I offer a soft smile, allowing myself to let go of the tension that has plagued me for months.

Louise's voice cut through the lively chatter, drawing my attention away from Rick. "So, you had to patch up Negan quite a bit, huh?" Louise asks from across the table from me, making me look away from her brother to meet her gaze. Her glass of red wine is raised as she takes a sip, waiting for my response.

I nod, inhaling deeply. "Your brother did quite some damage, if you remember," I smirk, earning a twinkle of delight in Louise's eyes as she drinks.

"What exactly happened?" Glenn asks, leaning towards us, interested from further down the table, watching us curiously. A few others look over at his words, and I notice how close Michonne and Rosita are sitting together, making a flutter of surprise go through me, before being replaced with happiness for them.

Pushing down my smirk, I glance to the side at Rick, who sighs, meeting my gaze. "I may have... rearranged his face. And removed an arm." Rick admits bluntly, making Glenn choke on his water, and the rest of us break into laughter.

Shaking my head, I look down at my plate, grinning.

"You asked to hear it," Louise says bluntly, tilting her head to the side as she places down her wine glass. "I honestly think it was underwhelming. A bit mild actually," Louise adds seriously, her sarcasm just barely obvious, making Rick chuckle, shaking his head and looking down.

As the others laugh when they realize she's not serious, I look past Rick's lovely grinning face and catch a glimpse of Daryl, sitting a few chairs down. His eyes are trained on Louise's profile as she jokes, her mass of curls shifting over her shoulder. Daryl's gaze softens slightly, making me smile to myself.

Oh, how the tables turn.

The rest of my family continues with the conversation as I look down at my plate, trying to hide my grin of satisfaction. Looks like Daryl's going to know exactly how I felt all those years he egged me on to be with Rick. In hindsight, he was right, but still.

Only this time, he's the one crushing after the Grimes, not me. Oh, this will be so fun.

"What are you smiling about?" Rick asks me, his soothing voice a lowered whisper beside my ear. My eyes slide from my plate to meet his gaze, a surge of warmth going through me just being here- being home.

"I'm just- happy to be home," I murmur, my heart overflowing with gratitude as Rick squeezes my knee in response, his gaze soft.

At this moment, amidst the roaring laughter, warm food, and shared love, I know with absolute certainty- this is home. And I couldn't be happier to be back.

As the evening stretched into the early hours of the morning, our goodbyes lingered far later than they should've. What started as a simple dinner somehow transformed into a spirited gathering with drinks, board games, and conversation. It was only when the children passed out that we decided it was probably time we left.

When we got home, I put Judith to bed carefully, stroking her little blonde hair fondly before placing her blanket over her, smiling in adoration at how completely and utterly asleep she was.

Carl, too, went off to his room tiredly, while my dad sought the familiarity of my old room for the night.

In the quiet intimacy of Rick and I's room, a sense of normalcy falls over me as I shed my clothes, opting for one of Rick's clean t-shirts to wear to bed.

"You know, I've been thinking," Rick's voice breaks the silence, making me look over my shoulder to where he leans against the doorway of our bathroom.

"That's never a good sign," I joke, a playful grin dancing on my lips as Rick shoots me a deadpan look, his head angled downward. Despite his attempt to maintain his serious expression, I notice the trace of amusement flickering in his eyes.

"Seriously." he insists, his tone softening as he crosses into the bedroom. I turn to fully face him, arms folded in curiosity and back leaning against the dresser.

"Glenn and Maggie tellin' us about naming Hershel made me think about naming our baby," Rick confesses, a somewhat nervous gulp betraying his vulnerability. A sweet smile pulls across my face, my heart warming with adoration at the tender sincerity in his gaze.

"Oh yeah?" I murmur softly, touched by his consideration, my brows knitting together. I hadn't gotten to that point just yet, but it makes my heart swell with affection that Rick has.

Rick nods, a somewhat sheepish smile gracing his lips as he settles on the bed, nudging his head to the side for me to join him. I eagerly comply, climbing onto our bed and nestling beside his warm frame, my gaze fixing on his with gentle curiosity.

Before Rick can speak, I stop him, not being able to help myself. "Wait- let me guess. Richard. No- Spencer," I tease, a knowing grin pulling at my lips, watching as Rick turns to me, exasperated.

I can't contain the snort of laughter that bubbles up my throat at his response, earning a smile that breaks his 'annoyed' exterior.

"You've been spending too much time with Louise," Rick grumbles, making me fully break into a fit of laughter, pressing my forehead against his chest as I giggle with delight. I can't help it, teasing him is just so fun.

"Are you done?" Rick asks, fond amusement laced in his voice, prompting me to sit up and compose myself. With a mischievous grin, I nod, waiting for whatever name he came up with.

"I'm done, go on," I grin fondly, somehow holding back my laughter.

"I was thinking..." Rick begins, sending me another look before taking a breath. "Andrew." Rick breathes, his expression flickering with slight nerves, his gaze searching mine for a reaction. My lingering laughter dies as I blink back at him.

I pause, searching his expression, a slight fond smile pulling at my lips. "Andrew," I repeat, smiling to myself and averting my gaze thoughtfully. It's actually a really nice name.

"We can call him Andy for short. Just like your parents did with you," Rick adds, his voice slightly hoarse yet soft with emotion, making me pause, my head snapping to his. My eyes widen as my chest shudders slightly with deep emotion at how thoughtful Rick is.

Knitting my brows tightly, I attempt to contain the overwhelming rush of tears threatening to spill from my eyes, Rick smiles fondly at my reaction, his wonderful blue eyes crinkling at the edges.

"Are those good tears?" Rick inquires gently, his gaze searching my expression. Unable to form words, I simply nod, fully giving in to the tears and letting them flow freely down my cheeks.

Rick chuckles warmly, one of his warm hands coming up to gently caress my cheek, making my teary eyes meet his. I feel ridiculous. I can't stop crying at everything.

"It's Andy's fault," I croak through the lump in my throat, making Rick's expression crinkle with genuine happiness before he bursts into laughter. His light laughter, warm and comforting, fills the room, his happiness contagious.

Not being able to help it, I laugh with him, despite the tears itching down my face, joy coursing through me. Rick's eyes are crinkled at the edges as he grins back at me, pure joy and love reflected in amongst the comforting blue.

My gaze shifts downward, my hand gently grazing my bump, warmth flooding through my veins.

Andy.

Our Andy.

___

Surprisingly, I'm the one to wake up first the next morning, my senses gradually awakening to the silence of the morning. Shifting in bed, I'm met with Rick's peacefully sleeping face behind me as he breathes deeply, dead asleep as usual. Fondness flowers in my chest as my eyes roam over the wonderful face of the man I love with my entire being. With every cell, every atom.

As I trace the familiar contours of his sleeping face with my tender gaze, a realization gently washes over me. That Rick, my anchor, my unwavering source of strength and love, is the missing piece of my soul I didn't realize I was living without. But the last four months without him made it undeniably clear.

Rick is my other half in every way, and being here with him, I'm whole again.

With a soft exhale, I lean closer, my fingers grazing the worn face of Rick's silver watch, its hands pointing to just after 5 am. Sparing a glance at the window confirms the watch's time, with the slightly lightening sky behind our thin white curtains.

Somehow not feeling remotely tired, I slip carefully out of bed, making sure not to disturb Rick's rare sleep. I know he needs the rest more than me, especially with what he told me yesterday.

After pulling on a pair of sweatpants, I decide to keep Rick's shirt on before quietly padding out of the room, shutting the door behind me with a gentle click.

I quickly check on Judith to see her fast asleep in her crib, same as when I check on Carl, out like a light in his twin bed.

With a soft smile gracing my lips, reassurance fluttering through me at the sight of our peacefully sleeping children, I descend the staircase, my bare feet whispering against the wooden slats. Each step takes me closer to my destination, the front porch.

Finally stepping outside into the hushed embrace of the dawn, I'm reminded of the first night in what we didn't realize would become our home. When Rick and I stood out here alone, staring up at the moon, quietly talking about how far we'd come.

Just as we did that night, I lean against the worn banister, gazing at the sky just beyond the rusted walls. This time, it's not the twinkling stars and nearly full moon that fills me with awe. Instead, it's the way the sky is painted in hues of soft orange, blush pink, and light blue as the sun peeks on the horizon.

Mesmerized by the slow blending of colors, I watch the sunrise, a peculiar feeling of hope settling over me as if this is the first sunrise of my new life. A life where I can keep the vow I made last night- of never taking my family being together for granted again.

As the sky continues to lighten with a promise of a new day, a mirroring promise solidifies in my chest. A resolve to make sure that my family stays safe, including me. A vow to myself, to Rick, our children- Carl, Judith, and our little Andy. To protect our family.

And I know that means going through with my plan for Negan, despite how crazy it may be.

With each measured breath, a sense of comfort and assurance washes over me, as if I somehow know deep in my being that I'll be able to keep that vow. That no matter what decision I make, it'll be worth it. To keep them safe.

Lost in my thoughts, I nearly jump out of my skin at our front door banging open behind me. Whirling around, my heartbeat lurches before immediately calming at the familiar sight of Rick standing in the doorway.

Relief seems to flood through him as his shoulders sag, dispelling whatever tension has been lining them. I furrow my brows in confusion as he quickly crosses the distance between us, swiftly pulling me into him with a tight embrace before I can say a word.

I blink against him in surprise before gingerly hugging him back. "Sorry, I didn't want to wake you up," I murmur, light confusion flicking through me at the way Rick is clinging to me desperately.

He doesn't say a word, tightening his grip on me as he presses his face against my hair.

"Rick?" I ask, worry tracing my words as I gently pull away enough so I can meet his gaze. His usually bright eyes are clouded over with emotion, sending a pang of concern through me. "Hey," I breathe, moving my hand from his back up to cup his cheek, watching as his eyes flutter slightly in response.

"I just- had a dream. You... were gone." Rick mutters shortly, his jaw clenched and his voice a hoarse rumble that painfully aches my chest. Gazing into the depths of his wonderful eyes, my brows knit together with sympathy, especially considering that he woke up with me gone.

"I'm sorry," I whisper, pulling him into a reassuring hug, knowing he needs to feel me. To really know I'm here.

We stay in each other's arms until the rays of the morning sun burn into the porch, casting a radiant glow around us. When I slowly withdraw from our embrace, I can't help but smile widely at the beautiful way Rick looks with the bright orange sunlight streaming across his handsome features.

"I'm here. I always will be." I assure him softly, watching as a semblance of ease settles in his blue eyes, nodding to my words.

I glance back at the sunrise, comfort flitting through me at the sight, grounding me in the reality of being home. Of being able to come outside and breathe fresh air whenever I like, to explore and enjoy our beautiful home, unlike the suffocating pit that the Sanctuary was.

Rick joins me on the banister like he did last time, though his hand stays resting on top of mine, his warmth surrounding me. My eyes slide to the right to look at him, smiling at his wonderfully handsome profile.

Turning his head slightly, Rick's gaze meets mine, deep emotion behind his eyes as he smiles softly, light creases forming between his eyebrows. One of his brown curls has fallen from his disheveled hair and onto his forehead, making him suddenly resemble Superman.

My smile broadens, a blush stinging my cheeks in the cool morning air as I admire him. My Superman.

"I love you, Cassandra Grimes," Rick tells gently, his voice a bit less hoarse now but still that same rumbling timbre as it always is early in the morning. That same rumbling sound that I feel reverberate through my very being.

My heart swells with love, a sudden clarity washing over me as I gaze into those comforting pools of blue, knowing that in every lifetime, in every universe, I fall in love with him.

"I love you too, Rick Grimes."

___

___
A/N: And with that, Cass and Rick's book comes to an end :')

Thank you all for reading and loving this story just as much as I do, it genuinely means the world to me, you guys have no idea  :')
I still feel so lucky and grateful that this story has gained so much love from you all, I genuinely never thought anyone would be interested in it and here we are!

It genuinely hurts my heart to end this book but this is simply where Cass and Rick's story 'ends'. Again, there will be the epilogues and bonus chapter to look forward to and the plot, especially Negan's, continues in Judith and Derek's story :)

Again, I love you all so so much, thank you.