Beauty and the beast

[jessie]

Thanks for writing this for me Melinda, I love it. I want to think of the Governor (Brian) the way you write him not how the writers had the character end up. I love your Walking Dead stories this is great, and I love that I am in the story. I am sure Jessie will find out about his past somehow but how will she react? I hope Jessie meets up with her Friends Melinda and Sanda. Please update again soon.

[melinda]

ch 7

They had walked for miles when the Georgia heat was almost becoming too much.

“Jessie...its not good for you to be out here when its so hot. I don't see any water around. We should head back and then start again tomorrow,” Brian decided.

“I can't. I can't leave my friends...they need me. There's one area, over there, on the other side of that pond. We should try there and then maybe we can head back again,” Jessie offered.

He stared at the area she was pointing at, and his heart began to race. There was no way she could ever find out what was on the other side. For if she were to venture over there, he knew he would lose her for good. So he thought fast. “Jessie...I've been there a time or two, hoping to find shelter, food anything. But there's really not much to see there...just some old deserted building...”

Jessie's eyes lit up. “They might be there! Melinda and Sanda...they might have been looking for me and decided to find shelter...we have to go...please? For me?” she pleaded.

“Okay. If you want to do this we're going to have to do it my way. Agree?”

“Anything you like...I just don't want to take any chances...”

“And we're not,” Brian agreed. “That's why I want you to wait over here, close to the edge of this pond. The biters can't get you. I'll go ahead, check out the area, check to see how bad the biters are over there. If its not bad, I'll come get you...but I need you to stay here and stay safe. That's the most important thing right now.”

Jessie didn't know what to do. “I thought the important thing was to find my friends!”

“Jessie, how can we find them if something happens to you? I have no idea what they look like or anything...you're key to this rescue. You just have to stay put. Be alert, don't take any chances, and if you're in danger, head back to our camp. I'll know where to find you.”

“What about you? What if they're bad over there...”

Brian looked at her. “I'll be fine. I'll be back.” With that, he touched her arm and then quickly made his way around the pond.

After walking for a mile or so....he saw it. What he couldn't have Jessie seeing. It was the prison cell, presumably still inhabited by Rick and his group. That probably included Michonne. Michonne. The woman who'd taken so much from him- his eye, more importantly, his daughter. Up until he found Jessie he'd still been planning on his revenge, but for right now, he didn't know what to do.

There was probably a chance Rick had taken in Jessie's friends. But certainly Rick wouldn't hand them over to 'the governor' and there was a great chance that any chance meeting could result in disaster, probably a few lives lost. And he couldn't take any chances of anything happening to her.

So he looked around, looking for a place he could hide for awhile. He had to stay gone for a little while, not too long because he didn't want to leave Jessie alone, but long enough not to arouse any suspicion in her.

After a little while, he decided to head back, when, before he could turn around, he heard a trigger from a gun. He placed his hands in the air and slowly turned around, when he got the shock of his life.

There, standing in front of him, was his true enemy- Rick Grimes. And he was not happy.

They stared at each other, neither one daring turn their heads. Finally Rick spoke up.

“What are you doing here? What do you want?”

Phillip sighed. “I don't want trouble. I just ..went for a walk.”

“And I'm supposed to believe that? Yeah, right .You'll have to excuse me for not believing you, governor,” Rick said bitterly.

“I'm not the governor!” Phillip yelled. He cleared his throat. “I'm not that man anymore.”

“The hell you're not. You're a liar, a rapist, a murderer and a thief. Those are just a few of your better qualities. So tell me the truth, and tell me now...”Rick aimed his gun at Phillip's face. “What do you want from us?”

“I don't want anything. I promise. I just want to go on, let you do your thing and let me do mine and no one gets hurt. Its that easy. No losers, we all win. We both leave with a little peace of mind knowing we're not going to hurt each other any more. Isn't that what you've always wanted?”

Rick shook his head. “I'm afraid its not that easy. You see, its not up to me any more. I'm not the only one in charge. You see, if it were up to me you wouldn't even be standing here to try your negotiations with me.”

“Go ahead, Rick.” Phillip put his arms out. “You want your shot at me? Here I am. I'm not going to fight you.”

“No! We're going to handle this the right way. You're coming with me. Don't even think of starting any trouble. You got that?”

Phillip nodded and then started to walk in front of Rick. Instead of his own well-being, he found himself wondering what would happen to Jessie. She needed him, and he needed her. There had to be a way...he couldn't give up now, not when he had so much to lose.

Jessie, he thought, wherever you are, I only pray that someday you can forgive me for the man I really am.

TBC

[jessie]

Great update, I wonder what will happen next. I wonder if Sanda and Melinda are in the Prison or are they still out there somewhere looking for Jessie. I love that Rick caught him, I can see Michonne now she will want to kill him as soon as she sees him. I love this story, I am feeling sorry for Jessie what will she do when Brian doesn't return, she will be all alone. Please update again I can't wait to see what will happen next.

[melinda]

ch 8


“Council,” Rick began. “I think we all know-everyone does-why I've called this meeting.”

Phillip said nothing. Instead he carefully examined the group; most were familiar faces, even if he didn't know their names. But there were some strangers, although he was quite sure that they had heard all about him.

“I don't even see why we need no meetin'”, Daryl spat out as he ran to confront the governor. Rick stopped him, but still Daryl was furious. Carol watched helplessly as she knew why Daryl was so upset.

“You bastard!” Daryl continued. “You killed my brother! You left him to die out there alone with those walkers, and you took away what was left of my family! You're d**n lucky Rick found you; if it had been me, there would be no meeting. It would be me and what's left of you scattered across the field for them walkers to get you good.”

“Daryl,” Carol looked at him, and with her eyes she pleaded with him to sit down. The whole room was filled with tension, and soon everyone looked at Rick to decide what to do next.

“The way I see it,” Rick started. “You and I, we ain't ever going to see eye-to-eye. The world isn't what it used to be, but I do what I have to do to protect my own. I don't see any way out of this for you, Governor.”

Phillip said nothing; instead to everyone's surprise, Hershel spoke up. “Phillip. His name is Phillip.”

“Does it matter what we call this piece of sh...” Daryl yelled.

“In this room, we are judge, jury, and if the need be, executioner. I realize this world has changed, but it doesn't mean that people need to...lose our humanity,” Hershel continued, not bothering to take his eyes off of their prisoner.

“Humanity? I don't care what you call him, this is no human. He's a cold-hearted killer, liar, thief and rap...”

Carol touched Daryl on the arm, and he knew he crossed a line. “I'm sorry, Hershel. I didn't mean..”

“That's okay. We are all aware of what Phillip has done. Believe you me, I am just as aware..this is the man who wanted my daughter dead,” Hershel replied. “But does that mean that we stoop down to his level, to be who he expects us to be?”

Daryl stared down the governor. “Hershel always was a bible man. Didn't it say somewhere about an eye for an eye,” he mocked him. “It may be too late for that, but that don't mean we have to let this monster live to take another life.”

“Daryl, I realize that you're upset,” Hershel replied. “We all are. I know I am. Do you think I want this man underneath the same roof as my daughters?”

“So then that settles it.” Daryl started to reach for his bow but Carol stopped him.

“Anyways, Phillip,” Hershel went on. “I do believe you know most of us in this room. Of course you know Rick, Daryl...my name is Hershel. This young lady is Carol, and she is a tough woman. And we do have a new one, his name is Craig.”

Phillip said nothing; his heart raced as he knew that he should be spouting out, trying to find a way out of this situation. But in the midst of what could be his impending doom, he found his thoughts turning to Jessie.

“What do you have to say for yourself,” Rick questioned.

“What does it matter what this idiot says?” Daryl yelled. “Did he stop to think that Merle might have wanted to live, that Andrea did, that any of his people did? No..all he cares about is himself and there's no way in hell he's ever gonna change.”

Rick nodded. “Carol, what do you think?”

She sighed. “I know that he can't stay here-in this prison-with us. Everyone here knows that he won't live the night. Michonne will see to it.”

“Yes, but does that mean that he gets a second chance?” Rick asked. “He certainly didn't give our friends a single chance. That has to count for something.”

Carol nodded. “ I mean, if we let him live, we would have to set him free. Otherwise that's defeating the purpose of this meeting. I don't think any of us wants him here, nor do we want him out there. Remember those first few weeks, when it was quiet? I don't know about you all but there wasn't a single night where the governor wasn't in the back of my mind. Wondering where he was, what he was planning. When-not if- he'd be back.”

“So what would you propose,” Hershel asked.

“I don't know. I don't know. I mean,” Carol sighed. “We don't know what he's been doing, where he's at, who he's with. I just think that we'd be foolish to believe a word out of his mouth.”


“Craig?” Rick asked.

“I know I don't know him. But I've heard all about him. We all have- me, Melinda, Sanda. They're both terrified of him and I don't know if I can live with myself if I put them at risk.”

Phillip looked at Craig, his heart racing. Jessie's friends! They were here, they were alive. All he could think of was how happy Jessie would be knowing there were safe. But for now, no one really seemed to want him alive. Even if they did, by some miracle, let him go, there would be no way anyone would let Melinda and Sanda go with him to Jessie.

“If we ain't going to kill him ourselves, there are hundreds and hundreds of walkers out there who would be happy to do our dirty work.”

“Daryl!” Carol looked at him.

“What? I'd say a governor barbeque is in order. I'd be happy to light the first match.”

“Daryl, no,” Carol stood up. “This is wrong. We can't do this. We can't be the governor. We have to do what's right. Murder is horrible, and I don't think that I could live with myself if I were to participate. Daryl, I don't even think I'd be able to look at you the same way if you did what you say you want to...”

“d**n it, Carol!We all have to think and act quickly. You wouldn't want Sophia in the same room as him would you?”

Carol closed her eyes, trying hard not to cry. She didn't even look at Daryl when she excused herself. “I'm sorry, Rick. I can't be part of this, not now.”

Rick stood up to try to stop her but Hershel gently pushed him back in his seat. “Just leave her be. She'll be okay. She's a survivor.”

“What do we do, Hershel? I don't know what to do,” Rick sighed in frustration.

“You know what the right thing to do is. We all do.”

“You're not making this easy on me.”

Hershel smiled. “Life's not supposed to be easy, now is it, son?”

Rick stood up and untied Phillip. “This is your lucky day. We're going to show you something you never showed anyone in your entire life- we're going to show you mercy. I want you to go, go as far away as you can from here. If you're stupid enough to show your face around here again, I can promise the results will be much, much different. Do you understand?”

Phillip nodded. “You have my word, for whatever that's worth.”

With everyone, especially Daryl, giving him the evil eye, Phillip went back to being Brian and went to look for Jessie, without a second look back.

tbc

[jessie]

I loved this update I loved Hershel how you made him have compassion for Brian after what we saw on this weeks episode. You wrote Hershel perfectly he would have done exactly what you wrote in this story. I love how you wrote Daryl, and I understand his anger. I love how Carol was torn with what was the right thing to do. Rick said she is cold, and has changed on the show she has changed but he is wrong she is not cold . You wrote the compassionate side of Carol , and I love that. I am happy to see Sanda, Melinda and Craig alive and safe. I wonder what Brian will do next? Will he tell Jessie about the Prison or keep it a secret.? Great story , I love it so much thank you for writing it for me.

[melinda]

ch 9

Jessie had crawled up on Brian's cot, wrapping herself up in his blanket and tried to get out of the state of shock she was in. Not only had she had to fend herself off from those zombies, but she was quite sure Brian had to, too. She had waited for him as long as she could, but she knew she wouldn't have been able to defend herself once they all came around her. There was a time, just a few short days ago, that she would have felt like giving up. But now she had more than one reason to live. Brian, he seemed so sure that they would find her friends. And he himself- yes, he was a mystery, but she knew he cared about her. He may have lost his life trying to find some strangers he didn't know just to make Jessie happy.

She wanted to go to him, to find him, but it was getting dark and they would be out in numbers. She was so scared that he was gone, but she didn't know what to do. In the morning, if he wasn't back, she would go find him. If she could just make it through one more night...

She closed her eyes, praying that everything would just go back to the way it used to be. Jessie thought of the old days, when her biggest worry was what to make for dinner. Now it was all a matter of survival, not knowing if or when she would lose someone she cared about. In spite of her intentions, she realized that she did care for Brian, wherever he was.

She had just fallen asleep when she was woke up with the sound of a door opening. She looked up, too scared to move, and saw that Brian had returned. Maybe he would be angry with her for staying in his cot, but right now she didn't care. He'd survived and that was the important thing.

“Brian...” she said softly. “I'm sorry. I just didn't know what to do. They were coming for me and I couldn't- I wanted to find you. I didn't want you out there all alone.”

He interrupted her. “I wasn't alone,” he replied gruffly.

“What do you mean...did you find them? Did you find my friends? Oh god, it was the zombies, wasn't it? Please tell me the truth...I could handle anything but I don't want to lose you now too.”

He looked at her with an intensity that was so overwhelming for Jessie. She knew he had his moods, and she closed her eyes, in preparation of being yelled at. What happened next truly took her by surprise.

She opened her eyes after feeling his lips on her mouth. He wasn't kissing her softly or gently the way he had before he left. Instead it felt like he was filled with frustration and didn't have any other outlet.

Jessie wasn't sure she was ready for this, but the way he looked at her...it was both scary yet a little exciting. For the next hour she didn't have to worry, didn't have to think, didn't have to be afraid. All of both of theirs' fears and pasts and hurts came out, and just for the moment, neither cared.

They had each other at that time. He wasn't being mean with her, but he wasn't trying to make this about love either. They were both so tired of hurting, of being alone, of losing everything that they had lost, that they found solace in each other's arms.

As Brian continued his movements, Jessie opened her eyes, hoping that just once he would look at her. But this act was not about intimacy. It was just two people's way of being someone other than who they were in the moment.

Afterward, he collapsed on the cot beside her. He pulled the blanket over them, held her close to him, and then quickly fell asleep.

Jessie didn't know what to do. In a way she was almost afraid of moving. She didn't think he would hurt her. But for them to progress their relationship the way they had- it hadn't been anything she was expecting or even thinking about. But in a way, she wasn't sorry it had happened. Maybe in the morning things would be different, but for right now, she lay in a man's arms and felt safe and didn't have to worry about anything.

She woke up a few times, wanting to go to the bathroom, but he had his arms still wrapped around her so tightly. Even if she wanted to, she didn't think she could disturb him.

In the morning the sun hit her face and woke her up. She looked around but to her surprise he wasn't there. Maybe he hated himself for what happened between them. She wanted to tell him it was all right, she was actually glad it happened, and that she wouldn't leave him.

So after going to the bathroom, Jessie wondered what she should do next. Fortunately she didn't have to wait long, for Brian soon returned.

“Jessie- I don't know what to say,” he sighed, not able to look at her.

“It's okay, Brian. I'm not mad. Really I'm not.”

“You're just saying that to be nice. I was out of line and now...now you probably hate me. I don't blame you. I'm really not a nice person.”

She walked over and wrapped her arms around him. “It's okay, Brian. Everything you've done for me...you took me in, you feed me, you look for my friends even though....I appreciate it more than you know.”

“So last night was just about being nice to me and showing me some pity...” Brian looked away, and Jessie noticed something that she hadn't before. He was clean-shaven. She smiled.

Touching his face, she whispered to him. “It's okay. I don't pity you. I...I might be crazy but I think I love you.”

He turned and stared the best he could. He couldn't believe what he had heard. “But I'm not perfect...you have no idea...”

Jessie smiled again. “It's okay. I don't care about your past. I see you for the man you are now. I know you've been doing everything to take care of me. I think you're a good person, Brian. And I don't want to be with anyone else, not at this moment.”

He wiped away his good eye, and Jessie felt bad. She had made him cry! “I'm sorry..I don't think sometimes...”

He turned around and faced her. “I don't want to lose you, Jessie. I want to know I would do anything to protect you. I'm glad you're here.”

“Me too.” Then she pulled back. “I know this is the worst time to ask...but my friends, did you find them?”

He thought about what he wanted to say. He took a deep breath, and Jessie sighed.


“I know you looked. We can keep looking, right?” Jessie asked hopefully.

“Of course. There was nothing there, just a building overwhelmed by them biters. I looked for anything, any sign...but there just...”

Jessie placed her hand in the air. “It's okay. I should have known better.”

She them took them both by surprise and climbed back in his cot. She pulled the blanket down, and patted the empty spot of the bed.

“Jessie...”

“It's okay. I just want to lay here with you, for a few minutes anyways. That would be nice, wouldn't it?”

He nodded and then obeyed. Jessie then touched his face and kissed him. He held back, afraid of letting his emotions take over again. But pretty soon it became clear that Jessie wanted this as much as he did.

Blocking his lies out of the back of his mind, Brian swore then and there that he couldn't lose Jessie. There was no way Rick's group would let him stay with them, although they would gladly take Jessie. He knew it was selfish but he was really starting to care for her and wanted to make what they had going last as long as he could.

tbc

[jessie]

You know you are a great writer you got me liking the Governor, and I kind of feel bad for the guy. I love this chapter my favourite yet. I don't know what you have planned for us but I wouldn't mind one story where the Governor changes because he found someone that he felt was worth changing for. Thank you so much for writing this for me, I love this story so much. Please update again soon.

[melinda]

ch 10

When they woke up, Brian looked over and saw that Jessie was propped up on her elbow, the sheet draping her. It was obvious she had been watching him.

“Jessie...you really shouldn't be here. I'll get you somewhere safe, I'll give you food...”

“You don't want me here anymore?” She tried to cover up, out of hurt and embarrassment.

“It's not that. It's not that! I want you here but I am being selfish. I've always been selfish. I can't be the man you think I am. I can't be the one to try to keep you safe every day knowing that in the end I couldn't protect you from myself!”

“Brian...what's going on?”

“Jessie, you don't understand! You think everyone is like you, that they are nice and believe the best in people. You don't know how people really are, how they can be. You just assume I'm some nice guy, your savior, and I can't be that man that you want. I wish I could but God help me that's not who I am.”

Jessie couldn't help it. This couldn't be happening, not now. She tried not to but the tears started falling down her face. “I told you I don't care about your past. We all have pasts. I know I'm not perfect. I may believe the best in people and yes, that has gotten me in trouble. But I also like that I care about people. I wouldn't change that about me if I could. I realize that my friends are probably gone, but I don't..I can't let myself think about that. I have to keep going, believing someday somehow everything will work out for all of us. Did you hear me, Brian? I said all of us...that means you, too.”

“Dammit, Jessie! Why are you doing this? Why are you trying to make me something I'm not! I tried being the hero, the good guy. But in the end...”

“What, Brian?” Jessie asked, grabbing his arm. “I would understand but you need to tell me. What is it you're hiding? What is so bad about you that you think I would stop caring? You took me in your home, your bed...I think you owe it to me to stop pushing me away.”

“It's not that easy. I can't talk to you about it because I can't think about it even to myself. I don't want to let myself think about it. I don't want the constant reminder of who I was...but here it is,” he yelled, pointing to his eye patch. “You see this? I have to wear it every day, knowing that as much as I want to I can't forget about the past. I have to live with myself. And I just want to protect you, but I can't. I can't.”

Jessie stopped crying. “I'll get my things. I'll be gone in twenty minutes.”

As she stood up, Brian tried really hard to think of what he wanted to say to her. Of course he cared about her, but he also loved her too much to get to know him, the real him. Not Brian not even Phillip, the man he once was, but the governor.

But he knew that he was selfish, he wanted her there with him. There was such an internal struggle within that was eating him up. He knew that it would be best for Jessie if he took her to the prison, let her find her friends, let Rick's group protect her.

“Don't touch me!” she shrieked as she tried to hurry up and gather her things. “I made a fool out of myself. I told you I loved you and you won't say it back. I get it. You don't love me. You just felt sorry for me but now that you get to know me you don't want anything to do with me. I'll be fine...just let go of me!”

She struggled as he pulled her close to him. She refused to look at him, she was so mad. But still they struggled, until Jessie finally broke down and started to sob in his arms.

He pulled her close to him, trying to soothe her. He knew what the right thing to do was, but deep down he didn't want her to leave. He couldn't handle being alone, not anymore. And Jessie was wrong- he did love her. But he couldn't tell her that. Everyone he ever loved was gone.

“Ssh,” Brian consoled her. “It will be okay. I promise. It will be hard, but we can do this. We'll get up and we'll start new. We'll find a new place to live and we can start all over...the both of us.”

“I can't. I can't leave. My friends might be out there and they need me, I know they do. And I need them. I can't just turn my back on them. If you want to move I don't blame you but I have to stay. I just have to,” Jessie said firmly as she wiped her eyes.

Why did she have to make things so complicated? As long as Rick and his group were out there on the other side of the pond, Phillip knew that they could never be free to live their lives together. But for right now, it was a risk he was willing to take.

tbc

[jessie]

I love that you are updating this story, I love it so much. I feel sorry for Jessie she must be confused one minute he is wanting her, the next he is pushing her away. He has so many demons, I wonder if he will fight to keep her, and keep her from her friends or will he tell her, and let her go to her friends. I don't know what I want to see happen. I can't believe you have me liking the Phillip/Brian in your story. You are writing such a wonderful story for me, and keep the updates coming I need my WD fix.

[melinda]

ch 11

(last update for the night I promise lol. I hope you like it Jessie. I think Sanda will like this too, or I hope so anyways. )

As the season of the year turned, so did the relationship between Brian and Jessie. Every morning he would go and hunt for food, sometimes late because he told her he was searching for her friends. Of course he wasn't; he knew that he would lose everything if he let Jessie know her friends were alive. How long he could keep this up, he didn't know. But right now it was almost like being part of a family again, and so he would hold on to it as long as he could.

Meanwhile, Brian wasn't the only one with a secret. For the past two or three weeks, while he was out taking care of business, she was out in the woods, getting sick. It didn't occur to her what it meant until she stopped to think about it. There was no denying what was right in front of her; she was pregnant, and she was more scared than ever before.

Part of her hoped that he would be happy, that he would start to believe in a future again. Whatever he was hiding from her, he sure wasn't telling, so Jessie decided to look ahead instead of worrying about the past.

On the other hand, this new baby could be a reminder of Penny, his wife, everything that he'd lost. She was afraid that he would resent her, and maybe leave her out in the cold. She couldn't really picture him doing that, but still, she couldn't help but have her doubts.

One day he surprised her by finding her in the woods. She wasn't ready for him, so when she was finished getting sick, she tried not to look at him.

“Jessie...what's wrong? Do you have a flu or something? Maybe it was something you ate. It's winter, it's every man or biter out for themselves these days. I've been trying, but maybe I should try harder. I'll go back out and I won't come back until I find something solid.”

She didn't look at him.

“Come on, you're a bit pale. Let's get you laying down and then maybe in a little bit I'll go back out. It is kind of chilly out there,” he offered as he walked over to help her back to the camper.

“I just...I just think I need to be alone. I'm going to lie down if you don't mind,” Jessie sighed.

“Want some company? I always believed that body heat was the best kind,” Brian laughed.

Then he noticed the tears in her eyes. “Come on, Jessie, let's get you inside and then we'll talk.”

As it was pretty cold out, she let him wrap his arm around her and he helped her sit down on his cot.

“Why are you so upset? If you're really sick...” Brian took a deep breath. “I know a doctor. I can get you a doctor. He's a decent guy, probably the only decent guy left in the world.”

“No,” Jessie refused. “He can't...he can't help me.”

“Is there something you're not telling me?”

She looked at him, and it was in that moment he knew. She was pregnant. He didn't know how he felt. After Penny, he never imagined that he could love another person, let alone another child. But Jessie had agreed when the weather warmed up, they could move. So maybe, without having to worry about Rick's group, maybe they all could start all over.

“Are you sure?”

She nodded. “Please, I don't want you mad at me. I didn't plan this, you know. I guess birth control is kind of hard to come by in the zombie apocolypse,” she half-smiled.

“Are you happy...do you want this?”

“I want to be honest with you. I am happy. For a long time Melinda and Sanda were my only family. I never imagined having a different one, one of my own. Of course I'm scared...we both know the world we're living in isn't really meant for children. I have so many worries, but in my heart I guess I know that things will be all right,” she answered honestly.

He looked at her very closely, confusing Jessie. It was at that very moment that Brian knew what he had to do.

“Come with me. Here, wrap this blanket around you,” he ordered.

“Are you serious? I thought maybe we could lie around and cuddle. There's not much else to do, is there?” Jessie smiled.

“Just come with me.”

Seeing how serious he was, Jessie wrapped herself up and they went for a walk. She knew the place somewhat- there was the frozen pond that they'd been to before.

“Where- where are we going? You said there's nothing but those zombies on the other side,” Jessie questioned.

“I'm taking you home where you belong.”

“What? I dont' understand...”

He didn't say another word until they approached a fence. In the short distance there were a few people, who they were Jessie didn't know. It appeared to be a woman, an older man and a young girl.

“Brian, who are these people? What's going on? I don't understand- you said this place was abandoned.”

Brian said nothing- instead he stared at the people until soon the little girl looked up at him. He saw her nudging Carol, and pretty soon all three of them were looking at Brian and Jessie.

Slowly, the three people walked over to the fence. The older man started to approach them, but the woman wouldn't let him. Instead she drew her knife and found herself face to face with the group's bitter enemy.

“What are you doing here?” The woman questioned. “Don't you know what Rick told you would happen if you showed your face here again?”

“This is Jessie,” he replied without a trace of emotion. “I want you to take her in.”

Jessie stared at him, trying to get his attention. “I don't want to go. I want to be with you, Brian! Don't you want to be with me?”

“Brian? Is that what you're calling yourself these days?” The woman questioned.

“Please, Carol. I know you and Hershel are good people. I don't want anything for myself. I just want you guys to take her in. I know you'll take good care of her.”

Jessie backed away. “What do they mean, is Brian what you're calling yourself these days? And how do you know these people?”

He sighed, knowing he didn't have a lot of time to explain. He looked at Carol. “Please..Melinda and Sanda...are they still here?”

Now Jessie was truly shocked. “My friends- you knew they were here all this time and you've been lying to me all along?”

He didn't say anything. Hershel turned to Lizzie and instructed her to get Melinda and Sanda- and them only. She ran off, not sure what was going on.

“What do you want from us,” Hershel asked.

“I told you. You take Jessie in, let her be with her friends. I will walk away and you will never see me again,” Phillip responded without a trace of emotion.

“Why? Why do you care what happens to this young lady?”

“You'll find out soon.”

Before anyone could ask any more questions, Lizzie returned with Melinda and Sanda. They all stared at each other in shock. Before Jessie could say anything Melinda, through the fence, headed straight for the governor.

“How dare you? What have you done with our friend-you monster?! I swear if you hurt one hair on her head...”
.
“No, Melinda. He's not like that. Brian's been taking care of me,” Jessie protested.

Sanda looked at them strangely. “His name's not Brian. It's Phillip, or as he's known in these parts, the governor.”

“I don't understand. Tell them they have you mistaken for someone else. Tell them!” Jessie desperately pleaded.

He said nothing. Now Jessie was starting to cry, and Carol made a small opening through the fence, just enough to let Jessie in.

Melinda, Sanda and Jessie all embraced.

“Jessie...you don't know who this man is! He's a liar, a murderer..he tried to rape and kill his” Sanda pointed to Hershel. “his daughter. He's the most dangerous person we've ever known. Everyone here wants him dead.”

Slowly Jessie started to back away from the man whose baby she was now carrying. “Is this true? Is what she's saying the reason you won't talk to me about your past?”

“I never told you that I was a good person.”

“You monster!” She lunged at him, but Sanda and Melinda held her back. Still, Jessie was furious. “You lied to me! You knew my friends were alive but you let me believe they were...they were...so you could use me in whatever sick plans you have for these people. You're not the man I thought you were. Stay away from me, Bri...whoever the hell you are,” Jessie spat while the women went over to comfort her.

Phillip started to beg. “Jessie, you don't understand...”

Hershel approached him. “I think you've done enough damage, don't you think, Phillip?”

He wanted to protest, to explain everything, but now he knew there was no way Jessie would ever listen to him.

So he walked away, not looking back. It was better that way, he told himself. Now she and the baby would be safe, safe from the zombies, the cold, and even more, from himself.

He only hoped one day Jessie would be able to forgive him for everything.

tbc

[jessie]

Awe awesome update, I actually felt bad for him he thought of Jessie's welfare, and knew if he took her to the prison he may lose her forever. I wonder what the others will think when they find out Jessie is pregnant. I am glad she found her friends, but will she see Brian again, and can she forgive him. I love this story so much. I can't wait to see what will happen next.

[Sanda]

Great updates Melinda. I am so happy that Jessie is pregnant. I am also happy that Jessie has finally found her friends Melinda and Sanda even though I am not happy that Brain aka Governor knew all along where Sanda and Melinda were and that he kept Jessie from her friends on purpose. I hope that Jessie will find in her heart to forgive Brian aka The Governor in the near future for portraying her. I hope you this awesome Walking Dead story you are wring for you, me, and Jessie in the near future.

[melinda]

ch 12

Sanda I wrote this chapter with you in mind. I had it planned all along but wanted to wait till you returned to surprise you! I hope you both like this.
.
“Take her to Reid,” Hershel ordered Carol. “Melinda and Sanda, you can go with her. But she needs to be seen by a doctor..”

“Can't you do it?” Melinda asked before looking at Sanda. “I know Reid is a doctor, too. I didn't mean anything by that. It's just that Reid's been so busy looking after the children...”

“I trust Reid,” Hershel spoke up. “I'll be around if he needs any help. I just need a few minutes to myself. Go along girls, I'll be along in a minute.”

Jessie didn't know why but she liked the older man already. Still she was in a state of shock by everything that had happened, so Sanda wrapped her arm around her to help her into the prison.

“Who's Reid?” Jessie managed to ask.

“He's Sanda's boyfriend,” Melinda explained. “He found us after that night...and then we all found this place. We didn't know what to do. He's been looking for you, but then there was a sickness- people started getting real sick so he had to stay and help Hershel with taking care of everyone. We never forgot you.”

“Jessie, are you all right?” Sanda asked. “Did that man hurt you? Did he try anything...”

“It wasn't like that. He wasn't the man you all say he is. He was nice, he took me in, provided for me. If it weren't for him...”

“You can't think of him as a good guy, sweetie.” Carol spoke up. “He's not a good guy. I'd rather face a dozen walkers than one of him any day.”

Jessie shook her head, then Carol helped her to a small cot. “Reid will be in in a minute. My name is Carol. I've come to know your friends pretty well. If you need anything, all you have to do is ask. If I can't help you then Daryl will.” A small smile spread on her face, which even Jessie noticed.

“Daryl- is he your boyfriend?” Jessie asked.

Carol blushed. “No. He's not my boyfriend. But he's- he's my best friend. He tried to help me more than anyone else ever did when I needed help.”

Just then a young man walked in, presumably Reid. “Sanda, are you all right? What's going on? You know we shouldn't be taking in any more...we can barely provide for all of us, and then there is the sickness...”

Sanda touched his arm. “Reid, this is Jessie.”

His eyes opened wide. “I'm sorry, Jessie. I didn't know...I didn't mean...”

Jessie said nothing. Instead she closed her eyes and nodded.

“Are you in pain?” Reid asked. “Do you have a fever, a bite mark, a scratch...anything?”

“No,” Jessie sighed. “But there is something you should know.”

Carol looked at Reid. They both were afraid of the same thing- that maybe Jessie had been attacked. “Melinda, Sanda, come on. Let's go outside and let Reid do his work.”

“No,” Sanda replied. “We've been waiting a lot time to find Jessie. She needs us. We're not leaving her again.”

“Reid,” Jessie spoke up. “I'm pregnant.”

Now everyone looked at each other. They all knew what this meant.

“Reid, we have to tell Rick. He has to know about this. Jessie, listen to me,” Carol looked Jessie in the eyes. “Is it the govern- is it Brian's?”

Jessie nodded.

“Reid, we have to tell Rick now for sure. There is no way the governor is going to leave us alone now. He won't stop for anything until he gets what he thinks is his...”Carol pointed out.

“I think he will be leaving Jessie alone,” Hershel approached the girls.

“What? How can you say that?” Carol pleaded.

“Because- he brought this young lady and her baby here- to us. He knew what he was doing. He knew she'd be safe here, that we'd take care of her.”

“Hershel...” Carol started. “I know you try to see the best in people, and we love you for that. We really do...but we can't take any chances! You know how he is...the whole thing with Michonne started when she took care of his daughter...”

“Penny,” Jessie surprised everyone by speaking up. “Penny was his daughter.”

“He told you about her? What did he say,” Reid asked.

“He didn't say much. I tried bringing her up but he never really wanted to talk about her. I think- I thought- it just hurt him too much to talk about her. That's why I was so scared to tell him- when I realized I was pregnant. But then he surprised me by bringing me here...I don't understand any of this, I really don't,” Jessie looked down.

“It's okay,” Melinda spoke up. “You're safe now. You're with a good group. Rick, he'll make sure that man can't get to you again. Maggie and Glenn...Maggie's Hershel's daughter, Glenn really loves her....Daryl will keep us safe, he's kind of a badass,” she looked at Carol who smiled. “You'll be just fine.”

Reid looked at the girls. “But what about Michonne? You know how she feels about the governor..”

This time not even Hershel knew what to say, leaving Jessie wondering what would happen to the man she'd once loved.

[Sanda]

Great update Melinda. Thank you so much for adding Dr. Reid Oliver my favorite character from As the World turns to this awesome story and for making me and Reid boyfriend and girlfriend in this story, you are writing me, you, and Jessie. Reid and Sanda are so cute and adorable together with her friends Melinda and Jessie. I love that Jessie pregnant with Brian aka the Governors baby even though I am scared that the governor may come and try to take the baby away from Jessie. Please don't let me, Reid, Melinda, or Jessie get killed by the zombies or the walkers in this story you are writing for us. I so totally couldn't take it if me, Reid, you, Jessie, Daryl or Carol were eaten or killed by a zombie or a walker.

[melinda]

ch 13

“Reid, Carol, ladies...”Hershel started. “May I have a moment alone with Jessie?”

“I have to do a checkup. She's pregnant you know,” Reid argued.

Hershel shut his eyes. “I know.”

Carol looked at him, wondering how he knew that. But she also trusted Hershel; if he needed to talk to their newest group member than there was a reason for it.

“Come on, Sanda and Melinda. Reid, Daryl found some food. Maybe you can help him prepare it while the girls here and I find some clothes and stuff for Jessie.”

Reid looked at Jessie once more, then Sanda took his hand and they all went off to different parts of the prison.

“Young lady, I realize all of this is happening pretty fast. I know what you've found out is a shock...trust me, I've had my share of shocks throughout all of this,” Hershel smiled.

“Everyone hates him. You have reason to hate him...why don't you?” Jessie questioned.

He sighed. “Life's too short, especially in these days, to waste your time hating anyone. Feelings like that can only get you hurt, both in the head, and in the heart.”

“I don't know what I'm supposed to do. I know Sanda has her boyfriend...did Melinda's boyfriend make it?”

“Craig?” Hershel smiled. “Yes. He's actually on our council. Don't worry about your friends. We all look after one another here.”

“But the last thing anyone here needs is to be stuck with a baby when that means any cry, a cough, any noise a baby makes could bring out the...”

“Jessie, do you think you're the only one here with a baby?”

Jessie looked at him.

He continued. “Rick, he's good people, you'll see that for yourself. He has a little one, not even a year. Judith is her name. Melinda, Sanda and Carol and my daughter Beth all take turns looking after her.”

“What about Judith's mother?”

“I'm afraid to tell you. But its better you ask me then Rick. His wife, Lori...she didn't make it. For a long time Rick was confused, blinded by his hurt. It's still not easy for him, but he has Judith and Carl..”

“Carl?”

“That's his son. He may be young but I wouldn't want to cross him. This world has changed us, every one. It's just not what it used to be. Let me tell you a story, Jessie. Humor an old man, will you?”

He made her smile. She nodded.

“When this all started- all the walkers and stuff- I was just a simple man. Had a farm, been in my family for a while. I clung to that farm like it was my only lifeline. My first wife- my girls' mother, she passed some time ago. But eventually I found another lady- companionship, really- but this time...in this world she just didn't make it.”

“Hershel,” Jessie whispered. “I'm so sorry.”

“Me too, Jessie. Me, too. Anyways I clung to the old way of life, thinking that if I could just control things by myself, I could keep me and my daughters safe. Thought I didn't need anyone. That's when this group of outsiders came in, looking for refuge. Plus I had been a doctor- an animal doctor, mind you- but Carl- Rick's son, had been hurt. So I took care of him, took care of them all, really. I had it in my mind that as soon as Carl got better they would all have to leave.”

“What changed your mind?”

“A little girl named Sophia,” Hershel looked away, sadly.

“Was she...was she yours?” Jessie wondered, her eyes filling with tears.

“No. She wasn't mine. She wasn't Daryl's either, but he did more than any of us put together to find her. He put himself at risk, got himself hurt, going out every single day and wouldn't stop until he found her. When Carol- Sophia's mother- felt like giving up, he kept on going.” He took a deep breath.

“Is she..was she...”

He nodded. “The walkers got her. Broke all of our hearts. The look on Carol's face when she saw her daughter had turned- it broke my heart, all of our hearts really. She was a good mom, Carol was, although I don't think she believes that.”

“But Carol's here with you guys now...”Jessie said.

“Yes, and a fine woman she is. She's been through more than you'll ever know. But its her story to tell, not mine. I'm just glad....I'm glad Daryl, he cares for her more than she knows. Probably more than he knows too.”

“I'm sorry. I don't want to be a burden to all of you...”Jessie said, still crying at the thought of what they all must have been through.

“You're not. You're in good hands. I know it may be hard for you to understand why Philip did what he did, any of it. I do know this...sometimes when you love someone you have to let them go.”

Jessie shook her head. “He didn't- he didn't love me. I told him I did and he didn't...”

“Jessie, hold out your hand,” Hershel ordered.

She obliged. When she opened her eyes she was surprised to see it was the lipstick she had been saving for Sanda. “Where did you get this?”

“While Reid and your friends were helping you settle in, I went and had a little talk with Phillip. He wouldn't' say much. But he did give this to me and asked that I give it to you.”

“He had it all this time and he kept it from me! He wanted me to give up on my friends. He didn't' care about me!” Jessie raised her voice.

“Jessie, do you realize what day it is today?” Hershel smiled again.

“No.”

“It's thanksgiving. He said he found it but was waiting for the right time to give it to you. A surprise, he said. But once he found out about the baby- he knew he couldn't hold on to it any longer. Just like he knew he couldn't hold on to you any longer, either.”

“But why?” Jessie asked. “You all say he's a monster, that he's this terrible terrible person.”

“I don't know much. Remember, I was an animal doctor, not a people one. But I do know this....people have this incredible capacity- a gift, really- to surprise you. Sometimes its a bad surprise, like what you've found out about him. But once in awhile, they can surprise you in a good way.” He got up.

“Where are you going?” Jessie smiled. “I like talking to you. You remind me of...”

“Your father? I get that a lot. Although in these days with this beard, I kind of thought you'd say I reminded you of Santa Claus,” he laughed. Hershel nodded his head then walked out of the room, leaving Jessie alone with her thoughts.

Carol, unknown to them, had accidentally heard what they were talking about. Hearing the mention of Sophia still upset her, so after taking Sanda and Jessie and Reid back to Jessie, she excused herself.

She walked outside and saw Daryl looking around. “Daryl...” she called out.

He turned around and nodded. Then she surprised him by walking up and putting her arms around him. “What's that for?” he muttered.

“For being you,” she sighed.

He didn't know much- by then he'd heard from Reid about what the governor had done. He didn't know what he was up to, but this much was for certain- he'd let Carol down once, and he would never do it again. Never..

tbc