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Solace

Chapter 84

Rick Grimes stood at the altar, more specifically, one spot on the white, sandy beach, as they didn’t actually have an altar. A few rows of metal folding chairs from an old storage room on the base stretched out before him, an aisle formed between them. The seats were filled with their closest friends and quite a few people from the island – they couldn’t pass up a wedding. Rick’s hands trembled somewhat from the anticipation of seeing his bride-to-be. He busied them by glancing at the trusty watch on his wrist.

5:11 p.m.

His hands shook a little more and he stuffed them into his pockets. The ceremony was supposed to start at five o’clock. Lindsey knew that, but she wasn’t here. He directed a worried look at Maggie and the woman shrugged. Carl was sitting patiently next to her as Judith wiggled in his lap. They exchanged a glance, next with Glenn, and then Daryl. Rick tugged out his hand, checking the time once again.

5:12 p.m.

Where are you, Lindsey?


TEN HOURS EARLIER

On that beautiful Saturday morning, Lindsey awoke, not in her own bed, but Maggie’s. The brown-haired woman was still asleep next to her, breaths relaxed and steady. They’d stayed up late, talking and giggling. Due to her pregnancy, it had probably wiped her out. Since Lindsey wouldn’t allow a bachelorette party – one was enough with Luke, the stripper dressed as a cop, ironically enough – Maggie had demanded that she stay with her the night before the wedding. According to the pregnant woman, traditions needn’t be neglected, so Lindsey was forbidden to see Rick until they met at the altar. She had to admit, it made the occasion a little more exciting. She couldn’t wait to see Rick all dressed up. The last time had been Maggie and Glenn’s wedding. That fateful night seemed like a lifetime ago. And here they were today, swapping their own vows. Crazy.

She adjusted her head on the pillow to admire the wedding dress that hung from Maggie’s tiny closet door. The lacy, sleeveless dress in a stunning shade of ivory came to just above her knees and dipped into a deep V-neck, scalloped lace edging there and at the hemline. Her neighbor, the same one that had given her the pair of sandals, offered her the dress when she found out about their upcoming nuptial. Lindsey had refused at first, saying that she didn’t need anything extravagant, but the woman had insisted. Once Lindsey saw it, she was sold by its simple beauty. Rick would approve, too. The neckline was a tad dramatic for her liking, but she knew he certainly wouldn’t mind.

Maggie stirred next to her and started to rub her bleary eyes. “Good morning,” she slurred.

“Good morning to you, too.”

“You’re getting married today!” Maggie exclaimed happily on a large stretch, her arms extended upward.

Lindsey laughed. “Think you can make it through the day? We were up pretty late last night.”

Maggie sat up slightly and rested a comfortable hand on her belly. “Worth it,” she retorted. “I know I’ve got at least one dance in me before this baby knocks me on my ass again.”

“May I?” Lindsey asked, holding out her hand.

“Go for it.” She even took Lindsey’s hand and guided it onto her belly. She was starting to show now. Nothing drastic, but her stomach had a slight curve to it.

“Have you felt it kick yet?”

“I don’t think so. It’s probably too early. I thought I did once, but it could have been gas.”

They both laughed. “I know all about that.” The words were out before Lindsey could stop them.

Maggie’s eyes filled with pity and she rested her hand on top of Lindsey’s. “Did you feel your baby kick?”

Lindsey nodded sadly.

“I’m so sorry. That must have been horrible for you.”

“It did suck,” was all Lindsey could say. That about summed it up.

Maggie squeezed the blonde’s hand. “You and Rick are going to have a baby. I know it.” She must have seen the doubt in Lindsey’s expression, because she followed it up with, “And if you don’t, you have two wonderful children that will love you anyway.”

Lindsey smiled through her looming tears. “Thank you.”

Abruptly, Maggie sighed. “All right, enough sad talk. Today is a happy day. Let’s get you ready.”

Maggie and Glenn’s bungalow was a flurry of activity until early in the evening. The poor guy had come out of the spare room to discover a table full of women eating breakfast, and the crowd didn’t let up after that. Lindsey thought it was a bit much, but their excitement was almost contagious. Whenever she remembered that she was marrying Rick, her breath would catch as butterflies swooped low in her stomach. Everyone needed this day of bliss, including her – especially her. Not many details had been disclosed to her about the reception, but she was sure it would be a great party. As long as the day ended with her as Mrs. Grimes, they could plan whatever they wanted.

At quarter-to-five, Maggie was outfitted in a casual sundress, the fluid shape accenting her rounded belly even more. Glenn was wearing a clean pair of pants, the olive ones he usually sported, and a black t-shirt. Lindsey was already in her dress and sandals. A bouquet of pink orchids sat on the table, tied together with a strand of twine.

Maggie held Lindsey at arm’s length. “We’re gonna head to the beach. You got it from here?”

Lindsey took a deep breath and nodded. “I’ll see you down there.”

Now alone in the house, she turned to check her appearance in the full-length mirror. When she saw her reflection, she was suddenly all too aware of what was happening. The butterflies exploded and she was at a loss for breath. Maggie had wanted to braid her hair into an intricate up-do, but Lindsey didn’t go for it. Her hair hung in cascading waves over her slender shoulders. The only thing she did allow was a crown of flowers made especially by a student from her Intermediate class. She looked exactly the way she wanted to today, and yet, she couldn’t budge. After an indefinite amount of time, it occurred to her that she had unfinished business, and it couldn’t wait. She flicked her dark gaze to the ceiling and spoke softly.

“I want you to know that I still love you, but I have to do this. Rick makes me happy. You made me happy, too. Things are different now, though. I hope you can forgive me for moving on.” Her thoughts drifted from her late husband to her parents. Her mother hadn’t been alive to see her married, but her father was the one to walk her down the aisle. Hot tears pricked her eyes. “I miss you, Daddy. I wish you were here.” She held back a sob as anxiety threatened to overwhelm her. “I can’t do this alone.”

“Ya don’t have to,” a voice said from the doorway.

Lindsey spun around and swiped at her cheeks, the vision of Daryl Dixon never more welcome than it was at that very moment. He picked up her bouquet and placed it in her trembling hands.

“Thought you got lost,” he murmured. “I’m a pretty good tracker, though.”

“Oh, yeah?” she asked with an arched brow.

“Mhmm. Don’t know if ya heard, but husband season started today. Might be able to bag ya one.” He offered a bent elbow and she looped her arm around his.

“Okay, big talker. Lead me there.”

They exited the bungalow, a warm breeze catching her hair. She swept it out of her face with her pointer finger as she continued to clutch the bouquet.

“Ya look really pretty, Lindsey. Rick’s a lucky guy.” She couldn’t hide her blush and Daryl smiled. “But don’t tell Judy I said that. She’s my date…might get jealous.”

Lindsey giggled and pretended to seal her mouth. ”Not a word.”

They crested the path, the beach now within view. She could see the chairs and their awaiting guests. Her heart began to pound and she tightened her link with Daryl. He patted her hand. “I got ya.”

At the end of the aisle, Lindsey finally saw Rick. He looked considerably stressed, clad in tan slacks and a light blue button-up, until he saw her, too. His cobalt gaze didn’t falter as Daryl walked her to him.

Rick was sure that he stopped breathing. She was an angel. His angel. The halo of flowers on her head was the perfect touch. When she got closer, he was aware of how clean and uncomplicated she looked. A part of him was afraid that she’d arrive all dolled-up, not looking at all like the Lindsey he’d come to know and love.

She and Daryl halted before him. The hunter unlinked arms with her, kissed her hand, and then clapped Rick on the back. He gave an indebted nod to his brother and grasped Lindsey’s hand. Maggie jumped up to take her bouquet, allowing the couple to hold both hands.

“I was worried there for a minute,” he whispered with a crooked grin.

“I’m sorry. I’m here now – and I’m not leaving your side.”

“You’re not wearing any makeup,” he blurted quietly.

Lindsey broke out into a mega-watt smile. “Was I supposed to?”

He shook his head. “No, you’re perfect exactly as you are.” His eyes swept over her face. “You’re so beautiful.”

As Lindsey’s smile widened, Eugene cleared his throat. The man was standing tall at the front. Before everything had gone to hell, he’d been bored one night and ordained himself on the internet. Not for any particular reason – just for kicks – and now he actually had an occasion to use it.

“We are gathered here today to celebrate the joining of two hearts, and to add our best wishes to the words which shall unite this couple in marriage. If there should be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united, keep it to yourself because this is happening, people.” A low chuckle resonated from the wedding guests. “Rick, did you prepare your vows?”

“Yes, I did.” He squeezed Lindsey’s hands and gazed into her eyes, getting lost in their warm color. “I thought I’d never love another woman again. You saved me, made me a better man. I promise to watch over you and keep you safe until my last breath. I love you, Linds. Today, tomorrow and forever.”

As Lindsey was basking in Rick’s love, Eugene made his socially awkward presence known. “Short and to the point, I like it.”

Rick laughed. “Thanks.”

Lindsey had his attention now. “Rick, you’re my best friend, my light in the dark. You brought me out of a bad place and gave me a second chance at life. I owe you everything I have, but all I have left to give is my heart. It’s yours…and always will be. I love you.”

Rick had to fight the urge to kiss her. He could tell she was struggling with the same battle. Her gaze dropped to his lips and he gave her hands a reassuring squeeze.

Eugene’s proficient voice slipped through their romantic haze. “Rick Grimes, do you take Lindsey Richardson to be your wife? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only unto her?”

“I do,” he said with as much sincerity as he possibly could.

“Lindsey Richardson, do you take Rick Grimes to be your husband? Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only unto him?”

She beamed and said softly, “I do.”

Rick’s heart rate doubled when he remembered what came next. He and Eugene had talked about it beforehand, thus the man knew his part to play.

“Will you be exchanging rings?” their officiant asked.

Lindsey shook her head. “No, we’ve decided not to do that--”

Rick reached into his pocket and she paused. His hand grasped her gift, and then revealed it in the waning sunlight. Her eyes bugged and she gasped.

“My knife!” He placed the sheathed weapon in her hands, tilting the handle so she could see it for herself. Etched skillfully into the wood, thanks to Daryl, were the words: Till death do us part. Lindsey chewed her bottom lip and Rick could tell she was trying not to cry. Her glistening brown eyes flicked up to meet his and she whispered, “Thank you, baby.”

He smiled. “You’re welcome. I’m sorry I had you in a panic this week. I just wanted it to be a surprise.”

“It is. It’s perfect.” She frowned. “I don’t have anything for you, though.”

“That’s okay. I get to have you as my wife, that’s enough.”

The women let out a collective ‘awe.’

Unfazed by the moment of affection, Eugene continued on to say, “By the power vested in me by the World Wide Web, I now pronounce you, husband and wife.” He swept his hand from Rick to Lindsey. “You may kiss your bride.”

Rick placed his hands on her waist and leaned in, brushing his lips over hers as she reached for him. They kissed briefly, knowing there would be more time for it later. They separated and smiled blissfully. Maggie stepped up to give Lindsey her bouquet, and the pair threaded their fingers together to hold hands.

As they walked down the aisle to a chorus of cheers, Eugene said, “I present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Rick Grimes.”

After stopping at their bungalow to return Lindsey’s knife – she didn’t want to actually lose it this time – the happy couple walked at a leisurely pace to the reception, their arms linked, with Rick’s opposite hand resting affectionately on hers.

“I can’t believe it,” Lindsey said in amazement. “We’re married now.”

“Mmm, my wife,” he whispered, stopping to steal a kiss from her. Her fingertips grazed his scratchy cheek.

“My husband,” she murmured against his parted lips. Her mischievous eyes darted in the direction of their bungalow. “We have the luxury of no post-ceremony photos, maybe we could start a new tradition?” she asked suggestively.

“Uh uh. As much as I’d like that, we need to wait until after. Carl will be at Tommy’s tonight and Maggie wants Judith, says she likes the practice.” His intense gaze froze her in place. “I’m gonna take my time with you, Mrs. Grimes.”

There were those butterflies again. At least this time they weren’t causing her any distress, unlike earlier.

As if he could read her mind, he asked, “Where were you today? I thought maybe you’d hijacked one of the fishing boats and taken off.”

The blonde released a breathy laugh. “No…I just had to say goodbye to someone. I’m sorry if I worried you.”

“Not a problem. I forgive you.”

“And you can thank Daryl. I wouldn’t have gotten there when I did if it weren’t for him.”

“I’ll be sure to do that. I’m just glad you’re here now.”

After yet another kiss, they emerged from the sandy path at the dining pavilion. The underside of the roof was decorated with candlelit lanterns. White, makeshift tablecloths, similar to those at the prison, covered each picnic table, along with more candles. The mouth-watering smell of bacon hung in the air, and they noticed a pig roasting on the large pit nearby. All of the ceremony guests were mingling, glasses of wine or water in hand. To Lindsey’s astonishment, a band played off to the side. She recognized some of the members, as a few were her students’ parents. Putting together the instruments, she placed their sound somewhere between bluegrass and folk. The music added a certain spark that was necessary for a wedding celebration.

The band leader, a tall man with graying hair and a fiddle, summoned the ensemble to cease playing when he caught sight of Rick and Lindsey, and whistled loudly between his teeth. “Here’s the couple of the hour, Mr. and Mrs. Rick Grimes!”

Everyone set down their glasses and began to clap and whoop wildly. Rick guided Lindsey to an open area in front of the band, what she could only assume was the dance floor, and took her bouquet to place it on the closest tabletop. He clasped his left hand with her right, and slid the other around her waist, urging her against him. Zoey, with the strap of an acoustic guitar around her neck, took a seat in front of the band. The whole lot remained completely silent as she adjusted her instrument, dragged the pick across the strings, and began to sing.

“Oh, my love, my darling, I’ve hungered for your touch…”

Lindsey recognized the song immediately as ‘Unchained Melody.’ Goosebumps stood out on her bare arms at the beautiful tone of Zoey’s voice and the simplicity of the song on the acoustic guitar. Rick touched his lips to her cheek and she relaxed in his arms.

“Did you know about this?” she whispered at his ear.

“Not really. I knew there would be some kind of music, but I didn’t expect this.”

Lindsey smiled at Zoey as her view rounded to the band. The girl’s mouth curved slightly as she carried on.

“As time goes by, so slowly…”

“I love you, Lindsey Grimes.”

Immediately her heart swelled to an impossible size. The name gave her chills – but in a good way. “I love you, too, baby.”

When the song was over, everyone clapped again for the couple, and for Zoey’s stellar performance. Lindsey rushed over to the girl and hugged her after she handed off the guitar.

“That was amazing, Zoey! Where did you learn to do that?”

The statement earned her a sheepish grin. “My mom taught me. Way back, it was her and my dad’s favorite...”

Lindsey glanced around at the socializing guests. “Is he here?” She didn’t remember seeing him at the ceremony, granted, most of her attention had been on Rick.

“No…he’s still at home.” Her disappointment was palpable.

Lindsey wrapped the girl in another embrace. “Thank you for what you did tonight. I’m sure it wasn’t easy, but you were incredibly thoughtful to share it with us. I’ll never forget it.”

The reception ran well into the evening. They all loaded up on pork and roasted vegetables, only to dance it off. Daryl made time to dance with his pint-sized date, but he stunned them when he got Michonne on the floor and brought out her playful side. They’d seen it here and there in the past, but not lately. Alcohol may have been involved, so that might have helped, but nevertheless, they looked like they were enjoying themselves.

Everyone got to dance with one another – Carl with Lindsey, Maggie with Rick, and so on. During the last dance, Lindsey found her way back to Rick and they came together, her head resting on his shoulder. She closed her eyes, inhaled his spicy scent, and melted into him. The band leader was performing an acoustic version of ‘Wonderwall,’ a song she’d always loved. It was beautiful. At one point, the clinking sound of silverware against glass echoed around them and she lifted her head to see that they were alone on the floor. Remembering the old-time wedding tradition, she tipped her lips up to receive a tender kiss from her husband.

At the end of the song, Rick and Lindsey began to bid their adieus. On the way out, the groom shook Brian’s hand.

“You really outdid yourselves. Thank you. We had an amazing day.”

Brian grinned at the jovial twosome. “Y’all deserve it. Congratulations.”

Rick instructed Carl to stay out of trouble at Tommy’s, while Lindsey kissed Judy goodnight.

“Aren’t you forgetting something?” Maggie asked, glancing downward.

The blonde looked to her left hand and saw that her bouquet was still clutched there. “Oh! I guess I show throw this, shouldn’t I?” Maggie nodded with enthusiasm. “Why are you so excited anyway? It’s not like you can catch it,” she teased.

Traditions, Lindsey, traditions,” Maggie scolded playfully. “Line up, single ladies!”

When the small group of about ten or so were gathered together, Lindsey tossed the pink bouquet over her shoulder. Hands shot up, but only one caught it. Zoey smiled at Lindsey, and the bride gave her former-student a wink.

“Good night! Thank you! We’ll see you tomorrow!” the pair called out as they made their way to the narrow path.

In between kissing and laughing, it only took a few short minutes to arrive at their bungalow. Rick surprised Lindsey by sweeping his arm behind her knees to carry his bride up the steps and over the threshold. When they got inside, he noticed something unfamiliar on the table and set her down. She lit the closest lantern to illuminate a bottle of champagne and two crystal flutes. Rick held the tapered neck to read the label.

“Damn, they got us the good stuff.” He slanted it so Lindsey could see where it said: Dom Perignon.

“Holy crap, I guess so!” she exclaimed. “I’ve only read about that stuff in People magazine.”

“Well, then, what are we waiting for, Mrs. Grimes?” Rick unwrapped the top, and while directing it away from them, popped the cork. It flew straight into the low ceiling, causing a minor dent, and sprinkled the floor with drywall dust. The pair burst into a fit of laughter. “I’ll fix that later,” he said as he picked up a glass and filled it with the bubbly liquid. He handed it to Lindsey. “Here you go, wife.”

“Thank you, husband,” she replied with a flirty smile. They would probably tire of that kind of talk by tomorrow morning, but for now, it was still new and exciting.

After toasting to their marriage, they each finished a glass and started on a second. Their eyes met over the rim and a silent conversation took place. Rick set down his drink and crossed the space between them to take her glass and position it next to his. Lindsey’s breath caught as he glided his hands gently up her legs to push up the bottom of her dress. She let out a squeak when he lifted her up, wrapping her legs around his waist. His arms held her tight against him as he backed up toward their bedroom. She kissed him fiercely, gripping the back of his neck, her fingers wound in his wavy hair. The door was ajar, so he pushed through it and eased her back onto the bed when he felt his knees hit the side. Lindsey kicked off her sandals as Rick braced his arms on either side of her head and continued to kiss her. She began to unbutton his shirt, revealing a muscular chest and dark smattering of hair. She pushed his shirt open, her hands roaming over his taut shoulders to completely remove it.

After tossing his shirt to the floor, Rick grasped the hem of her dress where it had bunched around her hips and urged it up her body. She helped him slide the lacy material over her head, and immediately went back to kissing him. Her hands caressed his hot skin in fluid strokes, but came to a stop when she felt the bandage on his shoulder blade. Rick lifted his head and they stared at each other for a few seconds.

Lindsey imagined they were thinking about the same thing. Without the cure, he would be dead right now, and she would be alone with his two kids. This day never would have happened. The thought was so depressing that Lindsey wasted no time making herself forget it. This moment was too special to be ruined by ‘what ifs.’

“Kiss me,” she whispered, pulling his head down to bring their mouths together. His tongue slipped between her lips and enticed wonderful sensations from deep within her core as he kissed her exactly the way she wanted him to. One of his hands slid underneath her back and unsnapped her bra. She shed it from her body and moaned on contact as he pressed his bare chest against her own.

Eventually, Rick brought himself upright again and started on his belt. He removed everything on his lower half and as he did this, Lindsey twisted across the mattress to lie back on the downy pillows. Rick moved over her, slanting his mouth across the curve of each breast. He latched onto her nipple, working it with his tongue and teeth. Lindsey gasped and whimpered as he switched to the other side. Her sounds of satisfaction were driving him crazy, not to mention, her skin smelled divine, like the sweet tropical flowers outside.

“I want you, Rick. I need you,” she pleaded softly, her hands clawing at his back.

“Slow down, Linds. I told you I was gonna take my time,” he answered with a wicked smile. He hooked his fingers into the sides of her underwear and eased it off, letting the silky scrap join the rest of their discarded clothing on the floor. He rubbed his scratchy cheek along the inside of her thighs and dropped open mouth kisses on her eager hips.

Lindsey smiled down at him and bit her lip in anticipation.

“God, I’ve wanted you,” he groaned harshly, allowing his warm breath to drift across her damp skin. He dipped lower and dragged his tongue over her clit. Her hips bucked as her back arched. A breathy moan escaped from her parted lips, swollen from his rough kisses. Her trembling fingers ran through his messy hair, grabbing a fistful when he moved to taste her again. This unrelenting pace went on until Lindsey was panting and begging, but Rick had no intention of stopping. She cried out – Rick always loved the noise she made. It was an octave higher, shameless, and completely uncontrolled.

While his wife lay sated from her release, he nestled his hips between her thighs, lined himself up and thrust deep. Lindsey moaned again, deeper this time as the sound ripped from her throat. He gathered her legs around his waist and pushed into her again, this time harder than before. Lindsey met his thrusts, her heart slamming in her chest.

Rick buried his face in her golden mane and said at her ear, “You’re mine.”

Gasping, Lindsey managed to reply, “I’m yours…all of me.”

They made love until Rick could no longer hold back, forgetting every care as he lost himself in her. Lindsey followed, tumbling over the brink a second time.

As they fell back onto the tangled sheets, Rick pulled her into his arms and whispered with absolute reverence, “I love you.”

Lindsey snuggled closer, linking her hand with his as she said, “I love you, too. More than I ever thought possible.”

Notes

Comments

@Corall
Aw thank you so much!! :D

bluecrush611 bluecrush611
5/18/16

I just finished reading this story :) and its the most amazing story ever :D

Corall Corall
5/17/16

@Kandy
No worries. I actually used Paint, haha. I just figured out what size the banner needed to be (by trial and error) and then cut the image down until it fit.

bluecrush611 bluecrush611
4/13/16

@bluecrush611

Also, Another Annoying Question. Where did you make that Banner of Lauren And Andrew? I need to get a good Banner place thingy and i need advice xD

Mother Dick Mother Dick
4/12/16

@Walker Witch
Thank you so much for the kind words and for following along!

@eventualprocrastination
Thanks for all of your comments! I actually just published a book, so that's the direction I'm taking for now, but who knows. Maybe I'll post something here and there. :)

bluecrush611 bluecrush611
4/10/16