#daryl tofa x nonbinary!reader

[d8nielaa]

not sure if this one will make sense but could you do Daryl x nonbinary reader AFTER the outsiders opening night? like just overall fluff, reader congratulating him etc.

OR

Daryl introducing reader to the cast? I just think it’d be really cute :)

btw I wanted to say thanks for putting up with the daryl requests I send it and pulling through everytime😭 you’re such a talented writer and I can tell you’d make it big one day if that’s the path you took in the future. Have a good day/night!🫶

Authors Note: aww thank you too much anon! ever since I was a little I always wanted to be a writer and director and hearing that you guys actually like my writing-it means a lot

Opening Night

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The theater was buzzing with energy, the kind of buzz that only comes after a successful opening night. The air was thick with excitement, and everyone who had been a part of the show was floating on a cloud of relief and pride. The cast was gathering in the backstage area, still in their costumes, some wiping sweat from their brows, others laughing and celebrating the night. The excitement was contagious.

You had been waiting in the wings, pacing just a little, trying to calm your nerves. You’d seen Daryl's performance countless times during rehearsals, but seeing him finally step into the role of Two-Bit Matthews on opening night? Something about it hit different. He’d nailed it, and you couldn’t be prouder. You’d watched the show from the front row, and every moment he was on stage had you holding your breath.

When the final curtain came down, you rushed backstage, weaving your way through the cast and crew, all of them congratulating each other. Finally, you spotted Daryl, his eyes scanning the crowd for you. When he found you, his whole face lit up.

“There they are,” he said, his voice warm and relieved, like he’d been waiting all night just for this moment.

You grinned and rushed toward him, wrapping your arms around his neck as he pulled you in for a tight hug. His cologne mixed with the scent of sweat and stage makeup, and for a second, you could only focus on the warmth of his body against yours.

“You were incredible tonight,” you said softly, pulling back just enough to look up at him, your hands resting on his chest. His shirt was a little wrinkled from the performance, but he still looked perfect to you.

“Thanks, love,” Daryl said, his voice full of that quiet pride that always made your heart flutter. “Couldn’t have done it without you cheering me on.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “I think you could’ve done it just fine without me. But I’m glad I was there.”

“You’re more than just my cheerleader,” he said, his voice soft but serious, giving you a look that made you feel like you were the only person in the room. "You’ve been with me through all of this. You’re my rock.”

You felt your cheeks warm, not used to hearing him speak so seriously, especially after such a high-energy night. “Well, someone’s got to keep you grounded,” you joked, trying to keep the mood light, but the sincerity in his eyes made your heart skip a beat.

Before you could say anything else, the cast started to gather around, clapping and cheering, congratulating everyone on an amazing opening night. You stepped back slightly, still holding Daryl’s hand, as the rest of the cast circled in.

"Hey, you two!" Brent said, giving both of you a teasing grin. “You guys are looking awfully cozy back there.”

Daryl rolled his eyes but didn’t let go of your hand. “Don’t start, Brent. Not tonight.”

But Brent wasn’t backing down. He raised an eyebrow. “So… is this official? Because I’m pretty sure the whole cast saw that look you gave them on stage.”

You felt your heart do a little flip, but Daryl just grinned and squeezed your hand. “Yeah, it’s official,” he said, his voice light but proud.

Melody, overhearing, added with a smirk, “About time, Daryl. I was wondering when you were going to introduce them to us.”

Daryl laughed and turned to you, giving you a look like, I’m sorry, but I’m not sorry. “Everyone, this is my partner, Y/N. They’ve been supporting me through all of this, so I wanted to finally introduce them properly. Y/N, this is the cast.”

You gave a shy wave, feeling a little nervous as all eyes turned to you. But Daryl’s steady hand in yours kept you grounded, and you smiled through the nerves.

“Hey, it’s so nice to meet you all,” you said, your voice a little quieter than usual, but you could see the warmth in the cast’s eyes as they greeted you.

“Nice to meet you too!” Tilly said, giving you a thumbs-up. “Honestly, if you’re with Daryl, you’ve got to be cool.”

“Absolutely,” RJ chimed in with a wink. “Daryl doesn’t keep anyone around who isn’t special.”

You smiled, a little more at ease now. “I’ll try to live up to the hype.”

“Well, we’re happy to have you in the family now,” Daryl said, leaning in and brushing his lips gently over your forehead, making your heart race just a little. You could feel the warmth of his affection, and his easy confidence put you at ease.

“We were honestly wondering how long it’d take before you two stopped being all secretive about it,” said another cast member, Jordan, jokingly. “Glad we don’t have to wait any longer.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at the teasing. “We were just taking our time, is all,” you said, giving Daryl a playful side-eye.

“I’m pretty sure it was mostly Daryl who was taking his time,” Brent teased, but Daryl just laughed.

“Hey, I wasn’t that slow,” he said, nudging you lightly. “I just wanted to make sure you were ready for all of this madness.”

You chuckled, glancing around at the group. It felt nice to finally be welcomed into this little family, and seeing Daryl surrounded by the people who cared about him made you feel like you were exactly where you were meant to be.

“Well,” you said, still holding Daryl’s hand as the cast continued to congratulate him, “I think the night’s only just getting started, right? I’m sure we’ll celebrate properly after the show.”

“Yeah, you bet,” Daryl said, pulling you closer again. “I couldn’t have asked for a better person to share this with.”

And in that moment, with the cast celebrating around you, and Daryl’s hand in yours, you knew you were right where you belonged.

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Authors Note: hai- mentioning RJ made a tear slip

[d8nielaa]

Hey! Could you maybe do a Daryl x nonbinary reader fic where reader lost some contest they entered (maybe writing) and daryl js comforts them? Thanks!

Authors Note: yes ofc anon! i've definitely felt the pain of loosing a writing contest before sooo, this hits close to home.

Poet Season

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The email subject was simple enough: "Writing Contest Results." But to you, it felt like the words were mocking you.

You clicked it open, already bracing yourself for disappointment, and it hit you like a punch in the stomach. “We regret to inform you that you were not selected as a finalist.”

The words blurred together as your mind processed the loss. You’d poured so much of yourself into that piece, wrestled with the words, the characters, the plot. It had felt like it was the most important thing you’d ever written—your chance to prove yourself. And yet, it wasn’t enough. Not this time.

Your heart sank.

You slammed the laptop shut, too frustrated to even look at it anymore. Your chest felt tight, the weight of failure pressing down on you. The tears were there, just behind your eyes, but you didn’t want to give in to them. Not yet.

You could hear Daryl’s boots before you saw him, the soft thud of his steps echoing in the quiet room. He poked his head around the corner, instantly noticing how you were hunched over in your chair, the defeated posture betraying the disappointment that was obviously eating at you.

“Everything okay?” His voice was low and calm, but there was concern there, enough to make you want to break down. You shook your head, biting your lip, but didn’t trust yourself to speak just yet.

Daryl didn’t push, though. He didn’t need to. He knew you. He knew when to give you space and when to step in.

He walked over and sat down next to you, his presence warm and steady beside you. You could feel the weight of his gaze on you, the way he was just waiting for you to open up.

Finally, you let out a shaky breath, turning your head away so you didn’t have to meet his eyes. “I didn’t win,” you murmured, voice barely above a whisper.

Daryl didn’t ask what you meant. He didn’t need to. He knew exactly what you were talking about, the way you’d been so excited for this contest, the way you’d worked tirelessly on your writing.

“Yeah, I know,” he said softly. “I saw the email pop up. You okay?”

You let out a small laugh, though it didn’t feel much like one. “I don’t know. I just… I thought this would be my chance, y’know? I thought maybe if I put myself out there, someone would finally notice. But… it wasn’t enough. Not even close.”

His silence stretched between the two of you, and for a moment, you weren’t sure if he was going to say anything at all. But then, as always, Daryl found a way to comfort you without needing to say much.

He reached over and gently nudged your chin, tilting your face toward him with the palm of his hand, his touch warm but firm. “You’re still enough, you know that?”

You met his eyes, but your own felt raw and vulnerable. “It doesn’t feel like it.”

“Then let me remind you,” he said quietly, the sincerity in his voice grounding you. “It’s not about winning or losing. Not really. It’s about you showing up, putting in the work, being real. And that’s somethin’ most people don’t do. So you’ve already won, in a way.”

You swallowed hard, feeling the lump in your throat. “But it still feels like failure.”

Daryl’s expression softened, and for a second, you saw something vulnerable in him too. Maybe it was the way his eyes searched yours, looking for something—some way to reach you.

“I get it,” he said, his voice low, almost gruff. “I do. But you can’t let one contest define you, or your worth. You wrote somethin’ real, somethin’ that meant something to you. And that’s better than any prize.”

His words settled around you, a quiet reassurance that was both simple and profound. Daryl’s comfort wasn’t loud, wasn’t dramatic—it was like a steady hand on your shoulder, telling you that you weren’t alone in this.

“I know it sucks right now,” he continued, his hand moving to rest on the back of your neck, his thumb gently rubbing circles against your skin. “But you’re not a failure. Far from it. You just hit a bump in the road, that’s all. This doesn’t change who you are or what you’re capable of.”

You closed your eyes for a moment, leaning into the comfort of his touch. You didn’t want to admit it, but you could feel the tears welling up anyway. “I just wanted to prove that I’m good enough. That… that I matter.”

“You do matter,” Daryl said firmly. “More than you know. And you don’t need a contest to prove that. You’re already doin’ things that matter, even if you don’t see it. Every time you write, every time you create, you’re puttin’ pieces of yourself into the world. That’s something worth respectin’.”

You took a deep breath, feeling the weight in your chest loosen just a little. It was hard to let go of the disappointment, but hearing Daryl’s words made it easier to see things more clearly.

“I’m proud of you,” he added, his voice soft but full of conviction. “Not for the prize. But for keepin’ at it, for doin’ the damn thing even when it’s hard.”

You finally looked up at him, and in his eyes, you saw nothing but kindness and quiet understanding. No judgment. No pity. Just the genuine support you so desperately needed right now.

“Thanks, Daryl,” you said, the words barely a whisper, but they felt like they carried a weight of gratitude with them.

He gave you a small smile, his thumb still moving in gentle circles against your skin. “Anytime. And hey… next time you write somethin’, you let me know. I’ll be your biggest fan, no matter what.”

You nodded, the knot in your stomach slowly unwinding. Maybe the contest didn’t go the way you hoped, but with Daryl by your side, you knew that one loss wasn’t the end of the road. There would be other chances, other stories to tell.

And you’d keep writing, because that’s what mattered most.

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Authors Note: ya like jazz??

[d8nielaa]

Hey! Do you think you could write something along the lines of a secret relationship trope? With a non-binary reader who is in the cast (a random background role of sorts) and it’s just them being somewhat flirty on stage? Like during the drive in scene, Daryl and reader would be dancing around as their characters and the rest of the cast catches on then? Not sure if this makes sense but if you can write it it’d be awesome!

Thanks and have a wonderful day/night :)

Authors Note: yes ofc anon! I love this idea so much!!

Dance with me?

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The drive-in scene wasn’t supposed to be anything special. Just a backdrop of neon lights, cars parked in rows, and the sound of distant music as the actors and extras milled around, going through their marks. But for you and Daryl It was everything.

You’d both managed to keep your little secret for months now—casual glances, small smiles, the briefest brush of fingers whenever you thought no one was looking. It started innocently enough, a shared laugh between you both after a particularly grueling rehearsal. But then came the way Daryl’s gaze lingered just a little too long when he looked at you, or the way you’d catch him sneaking over to your side of the set to “check on something,” but you both knew it was just an excuse to talk.

No one else seemed to catch on—at least not at first. You weren’t sure if it was because you both were so careful or because your chemistry was so effortless that it felt almost too natural to be noticed. Either way, you’d managed to keep it just between the two of you.

Tonight was different. The scene called for a drive-in dance, something light-hearted and playful. You and Daryl were paired up as part of the number, with the two of you dancing around as in the background in the midst of it all. You’d rehearsed it a hundred times, laughing and twirling in between takes, trying to keep it professional.

But tonight, the energy between you and Daryl felt… different. There was an undercurrent, a silent tension that neither of you could quite ignore.

The music blared up from the pit, and the first few bars of the song echoed across the set. Daryl grinned as he nudged you, his voice low but playful. “You ready to really show them what we’ve got?”

You glanced at him, a teasing glint in your eyes. “Only if you can keep up, Tofa.”

His smile was all mischievous charm as he took your hand, guiding you into the first step of the dance. The choreography was simple—twirls, spins, a couple of hip shakes here and there—but it wasn’t the moves that had you both so caught up. It was the way your bodies seemed to naturally align, the way you couldn’t help but grin every time your fingers brushed.

You spun, your back pressed briefly against his chest as the music picked up speed. The subtle closeness had your heart racing, and from the way Daryl’s eyes glinted as he caught your gaze, you could tell he was feeling it too.

“You’re making this too easy,” Daryl murmured, his breath warm against your ear as he twirled you again, pulling you into another spin.

Your laugh was soft, but there was something in the way your hand lingered on his shoulder, the way your fingers traced small circles on his skin, that made it clear: you were no longer just performing.

You weren’t just playing the characters now. The dance felt like a secret, like the whole world around you had faded away, leaving just the two of you locked in your own little bubble.

The others began to take notice. A couple of them shot you sidelong glances, exchanging knowing looks when they saw the way Daryl would laugh just a second too long at your jokes or how your hands would linger just a bit too long on each other’s arms. It was a game—this dance, this chemistry—but they were starting to pick up on it.

“Do you think—?” Sean whispered to Tilly, nodding subtly toward you and Daryl.

“Yeah, I think it’s pretty obvious,” she replied, her tone light but with a hint of curiosity. “Did you see the way he smiled at them just now?”

You and Daryl were so caught up in your own world that you didn’t notice the whispers spreading. You didn’t hear the soft chuckles from the crew members watching on the sidelines, and you definitely didn’t catch the way the rest of the cast exchanged glances when they saw how easily you both interacted.

“Alright, alright,” one of the main cast members—Joshua who played Dallas Winston—called out with a smirk as the music hit a lull. “You two want to let the rest of us in on the joke, or…?”

Daryl froze, mid-step, his hand still resting at the small of your back. Your face flushed, heat rushing to your cheeks as the sudden attention hit you both.

“What do you mean?” Daryl asked, his voice smooth but the tiniest bit flustered.

Joshua raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. “Oh, come on. The dance? The looks? You two have been all over each other since we started rehearsing. We’re not blind, you know.”

The cast around you started to laugh, teasing and nudging each other. The murmurs started to grow louder, and you could feel the heat of a thousand eyes on you and Daryl.

You looked at Daryl, who met your eyes with an expression somewhere between embarrassed and amused. For a split second, it felt like the entire world had stopped moving.

“Well, what can we say?” Daryl said finally, his grin widening, though he seemed a little sheepish now. “We’re just really good dancers.”

The comment earned a few chuckles, but the way he kept his hand firmly on your lower back, the way you didn’t pull away from him, made it clear that the whole “just dancing” explanation didn’t quite add up.

You shrugged casually, playing along. “Yeah, I guess we’ve been getting… a little carried away.” You threw a wink at Daryl, and for a moment, the teasing from the rest of the cast died down, replaced by an air of understanding.

“Oh, so it’s like that,” Renni said with a laugh, raising his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright, we get it. You two keep your secrets. But just know—everyone saw it.”

The tension between you and Daryl was still there, but now, it was a little lighter. The secret was out, at least to the cast, but you didn’t mind. It was almost fun, in a way—knowing that your chemistry had been so obvious to everyone around you, even if it took a little teasing to get there.

Daryl shot you one last grin, his fingers lightly brushing against your side. “Guess we’re not as secret as we thought, huh?”

You laughed softly, still feeling that rush of adrenaline from the shared moment. “Guess not. But I think I’m okay with that.”

The music kicked back up, and the scene continued. But now, every glance exchanged between you and Daryl held a new level of meaning—one that the rest of the cast had caught onto, whether they wanted to admit it or not. And as the night wore on, it felt less like a secret and more like a quiet celebration. The cast may have caught on, but you and Daryl? You were still the only ones who knew the true depth of it.

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Authors Note: when they're talking its supposed to be like ad libs..if that makes sense

[d8nielaa]

Daryl Tofa & Keith "Two-Bit" Matthews Masterlist

I Love You, I'm Sorry - Daryl Tofa

a quiet kind of love - Daryl Tofa

Under the Mistletoe - Daryl Tofa

Happy New Year - Daryl Tofa

Dance with me? - Daryl Tofa

Poet Season - Daryl Tofa

Opening Night - Daryl Tofa

Sick with a Warm Heart - Daryl Tofa

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Eternity - Keith "Two-Bit" Matthews

Don't You Touch My Brother - Keith "Two-Bit" Matthews

The Archer - Ace x Sodapop x Two-Bit x reader

Pushing It Down and Praying - Keith "Two-Bit" Matthews

The Warmth of Our Hearts - Ace x Sodapop x Two-Bit x reader

All For Us - Keith "Two-Bit" Matthews

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Safety in His Hands - Daryl!Johnny Cade

[d8nielaa]

hey! with the new year approaching I was wondering if you could do a daryl x nb reader with a new years kiss? only if you’re comfortable writing that sort of thing! maybe even just them at a New Year’s party or watching the ball drop, thanks! hope you had a good holiday :)

Authors Note: yes ofc anon! happy new years eve everyone!!!

Happy New Year

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The clock was ticking down, only a few minutes left until the year changed. You and Daryl were tucked into a cozy corner of the party, the buzz of voices and clinking glasses filling the air as everyone else around you was caught up in the countdown. The low hum of excitement was almost contagious, but Daryl seemed content to just stay with you—hands in his pockets, his eyes soft but alert, like he was taking in every little detail of the evening… and you.

You leaned back against the wall, sipping your drink, letting the heat of the room and the warmth of Daryl’s presence wrap around you like a blanket. It was your first New Year’s together, and honestly, you couldn’t think of a better way to ring in the new year than this—quiet, with just the two of you, in the midst of the chaos.

"You ready to do the whole ball-drop thing?" you asked with a grin, nudging Daryl’s arm. The TV was playing in the background, but he hadn’t been paying much attention to it.

He looked over at you, a little smirk on his face. "I’m more interested in what happens after midnight," he said, his voice low, but the way he said it made you feel all sorts of things you weren’t ready to fully admit.

You raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what’s that?"

Daryl’s smirk softened into something a little more genuine, a little more vulnerable, and he took a step closer, his shoulder lightly brushing yours. "Dunno," he said, voice quieter now, "but I’ve got a good feeling about it." His hand brushed against yours, just a quick touch, like he was testing the waters. You could feel the warmth radiating from his skin.

You felt a flutter in your chest. You loved how easily Daryl made you feel comfortable in your own skin—messy, imperfect, yet sweet, and soft, however you wanted to be. With him, there was no expectation, just a shared understanding. That made everything, even the new year, feel a little more special.

The countdown started in the background—ten seconds to go—and Daryl moved just a fraction closer, his hand slipping into yours without hesitation. Your heart was pounding in your chest, the anticipation not just for the new year but for what was coming between the two of you.

"Five, four…" you said, counting along with the room as everyone else cheered.

Daryl didn’t say anything—just watched you, his gaze intense, the air around you thick with all the unsaid things. He didn’t need to rush. And neither did you.

"Two, one…" The crowd erupted into cheers and clinking glasses as the new year officially began, but you barely heard any of it. You only heard the sharp, quiet sound of your own breath and the gentle pressure of Daryl’s hand still holding yours.

Then, without a word, Daryl leaned in, his lips pressing softly against yours. It was slow, tender, a promise more than a kiss. His lips were warm, and the slight taste of the drink he’d had earlier mixed with the sweetness of the moment. It wasn’t the explosive, party-kiss you expected—it was something quieter, something more intimate, like you were the only two people in the room.

When he pulled back just enough to look at you, the world outside seemed distant. The sounds of the party, the laughter, the countdown—they didn’t matter. All that mattered was the feeling of Daryl’s thumb grazing the back of your hand and the way your heart had somehow synced with his, both of you sharing this single moment of peace and connection as the year began.

"Happy New Year," he whispered, his voice rougher than usual, the corners of his lips pulling into that soft, genuine smile that made you melt every time.

You smiled back, squeezing his hand gently. "Happy New Year," you echoed. And for the first time in a long time, you felt like this new year might just be exactly what you wanted it to be—full of possibility, full of him, and full of moments just like this.

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Authors Note: what are everybody's new year resolutions?!

[d8nielaa]

could you maybe do one of like nonbinary!reader x daryl sick fic? with reader having a flu or something and daryl taking care of them? thanks sm!:)

Authors Note: yes ofc! happy valentines day to all my anons and mutuals out there! I truly adore you all 🩷

Sick with a Warm Heart

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

It had been a long day of rehearsals, the kind that left you exhausted and drained, but you didn’t expect to be hit with the flu right after. Your body ached, your head pounded with a fever that made you feel dizzy, and the constant chills made your limbs feel heavy. You had somehow managed to get back to your hotel room, but everything felt like it was spinning, and the thought of even moving to grab some water felt impossible.

You were curled up under the blankets, trying to sleep it off, but every time you closed your eyes, the chills would hit, or the fever would make you restless.

The door creaked open softly, and you barely managed to lift your head when you saw Daryl Tofa walk into the room. He’d been running lines all day with you, and though the rehearsals had been intense, he was always kind. But now, seeing him in your room with that concerned look on his face, you knew something was up.

"You okay?" His voice was calm, but there was an underlying edge of worry that made your stomach twist. He didn’t sound like he was just checking in—he sounded like he already knew something was wrong.

"I’m fine," you whispered, your voice hoarse. "Just… a little tired, that’s all."

Daryl frowned and walked closer, stopping when he could see the flush on your cheeks and how you were shivering despite the blankets around you. He raised an eyebrow, then walked over to the bed, sitting down next to you carefully.

“No, you’re not fine,” he said, his tone gentle but firm. “You’re burning up, (Y/N). And you look like you’re about to pass out.”

You sighed, sinking back into the pillows. "I don’t want to be a hassle. You’ve got enough to deal with, Daryl."

He gave you a look, like he was about to say something, but he paused, his eyes softening. "It’s not a hassle. You’re not a burden. You’re important to me."

You swallowed, the sincerity in his words settling over you like a blanket. It wasn’t often you let someone take care of you, but with Daryl, there was something comforting about his presence. He wasn’t rushing around, trying to fix things, just making sure you were okay.

Daryl stood and came back with a damp cloth and a glass of water. "Let’s get you a little more comfortable, yeah?"

You gave him a small smile, grateful that he was here. He gently pressed the damp cloth to your forehead, the coolness of it soothing the heat that had been making you dizzy. “You need to drink, (Y/N). Stay hydrated, alright?”

You nodded, lifting your head enough to sip the water. It felt good against your dry throat, and the coolness of it eased some of the ache in your body.

"You’re being way too nice to me," you muttered, your voice barely above a whisper.

Daryl gave you a soft chuckle as he set the glass back on the bedside table, then pulled the blankets up around your shoulders. "Well, it’s not like I’m gonna let you lie here sick without doing something."

He tucked you in a little more, making sure you were comfortable. "You’re gonna rest now, okay? I’ll stay with you for a while. If you need anything, I’m here."

You blinked up at him, the exhaustion pulling at your eyelids. "Thank you, Daryl… for everything."

He smiled softly, the dim light catching the warmth in his eyes. "No need to thank me. Just focus on getting better."

And with that, you closed your eyes, letting the fever ease under Daryl’s quiet, steady care. You didn’t feel alone anymore. In his company, the world seemed a little softer, a little safer, and you could finally relax.

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Authors Note: a short one but thats cause I got some good pics coming up!!

[d8nielaa]

happy holidays!

would you be able to do a daryl x nonbinary reader with a christmas theme? like maybe just them decorating their apartment or going around looking at lights? thanks!🎄❤️

Authors Note: happy holidays dear anon! ofc anything for you!

Under the Mistletoe

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The apartment was a little bare, the kind of place that looked great when you were just living in it—comfy, cozy, but nothing that screamed “holiday cheer.” But this year was different. This year, you and Daryl had decided to make it your mission to give the place some extra Christmas magic. The two of you had spent the last few hours unpacking boxes of decorations, wrapping strands of twinkling lights around the living room, and attempting to make gingerbread cookies that, honestly, were more “creative” than edible. The smell of cinnamon and ginger filled the apartment, and the air was warm with the sound of Christmas music playing softly in the background.

Daryl had never been one for big, extravagant holiday celebrations, but he was happy to join in this year. Seeing the smile on your face as you hung ornaments or placed the tiny reindeer figurine on the mantle—he couldn’t help but feel a little extra warm inside. There was something special about sharing these moments with you, the way the holiday season seemed to bring out a softness in him, something he didn’t always let show.

You were at the kitchen counter, trying your best to smooth out the dough for cookies, but it was a bit more difficult than expected. Daryl, standing by the doorway, was watching you with a faint smile, his arms crossed loosely over his chest.

“Need some help with that?” he asked, his deep voice cutting through the quiet.

You glanced up from your efforts, laughing lightly. “I think I’ve got it. Just… I might need a little more flour.”

He walked over to where you stood, easily grabbing the bag of flour and dusting some over the dough. His hands brushed against yours as he did, the touch warm and comforting.

“Everything’s lookin’ good, though,” Daryl said, his voice gentle. “You know, I didn’t think I’d be the kind of guy to get into all the holiday stuff, but… I’m glad we’re doin’ this.”

Your heart warmed at the sincerity in his voice. “Me too,” you said softly. “I love spending time with you, especially when it’s just us. It feels like… like home.”

Daryl didn’t say anything at first, but you caught the way his lips twitched upward, a tiny but genuine smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Yeah, well… You make it feel like home, too.”

After a few more minutes of mixing, rolling, and cutting out gingerbread shapes that looked more like abstract art than cookies, you finally decided to call it a night. The dough was chilling in the fridge, and the house was filled with the glow of the Christmas tree lights.

“Wanna go look at the lights?” Daryl asked, surprising you with the suggestion. “I heard there’s a neighborhood not far from here that goes all out every year. Thought it’d be fun to take a little walk.”

You couldn’t help but smile. “I’d love that,” you said, grabbing your jacket and pulling it on.

The night air was crisp as the two of you walked down the quiet streets, the snow falling gently around you, blanketing the world in a soft layer of white. The neighborhood was alive with color—houses decked out with Christmas lights in every shape and size imaginable, reindeer, snowmen, and even inflatable Santas in front yards. The soft glow from the decorations reflected off the snow, giving the street a dreamlike quality.

Daryl walked beside you, his hand brushing against yours occasionally as you made your way down the street. You could tell he wasn’t the biggest fan of crowds or big events, but the look on his face as he admired the lights was enough to know he was enjoying it more than he let on.

You stopped in front of a house where a massive display of lights covered the entire front yard, twinkling and flashing in sync with a Christmas carol playing from hidden speakers. You couldn’t help but laugh, eyes lighting up with excitement.

“Okay, this is definitely over the top,” you said, taking in the neon lights and inflatable snowmen. “But I kind of love it.”

Daryl chuckled, shaking his head. “Yeah, it’s a bit much, but I guess… it’s fun. Kinda makes you feel like a kid again, huh?”

You looked up at him, smiling softly. “It really does. Christmas has that magic, doesn’t it?”

“Guess so,” Daryl said, his voice quieter now as he looked at you. There was a softness in his eyes, like the glow of the lights had pulled something out of him. “I’ve never really thought about it before. But now that I’m with you… it feels different. Feels special.”

Your heart skipped a beat at his words, and before you knew it, you were pulling him into a hug, wrapping your arms around his waist. “I feel the same way,” you whispered. “I’m so glad I get to share this with you.”

Daryl’s arms wrapped around you, pulling you close against his chest. “Me too, kid,” he murmured, his voice low and warm against the top of your head. “Me too.”

After a few moments, you pulled back slightly, your hand lingering on his. The glow of the lights cast a soft radiance on his face, highlighting the way his eyes softened when he looked at you.

“Wanna get some hot cocoa when we get back?” you asked, grinning up at him.

“I’m down for that,” Daryl said with a smile of his own. “But only if we put extra marshmallows in it.”

You laughed. “Deal.”

By the time you made it back to the apartment, the snow had picked up a little, and the world was even quieter than before. Inside, the Christmas tree lights flickered softly, and the air smelled like cinnamon and gingerbread. The two of you made hot cocoa, piled with marshmallows and whipped cream, and settled onto the couch, curled up under a blanket together.

Daryl’s arm was around you, his warmth seeping into your side as you both sipped your drinks, the flickering lights of the tree casting a soft glow over the room.

“I don’t think I’ve ever had a better Christmas,” you said quietly, your head resting on his shoulder.

Daryl smiled, his thumb gently brushing your arm. “Me either. It’s the little things, you know?”

You nodded, feeling content and at peace in his arms. The world outside might be cold and chaotic, but right now, everything felt perfect. With Daryl, there was a sense of calm that made everything feel just right.

“Merry Christmas, Daryl,” you murmured.

“Merry Christmas, kid,” he whispered back, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead.

And for the first time in a long while, everything felt like it was exactly where it was supposed to be.

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Authors Note: last fic of the night! I will not be getting to any requests tomorrow seeing that it is christmas and I wanna spend time with my family but...if you have any requests please send them my way and ill get back to them as soon as I can!!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas everyone!

[d8nielaa]

hey!!

just read your first daryl fic and unfortunately have to ask for another😭 it was just too good yk. I was wondering if you could do some daryl x nonbinary reader fluff? plot/theme totally up to you!

thank you and happy holidays :)

Authors Note: tysm friend! ofc I'll write another one for you!

a quiet kind of love

Daryl Tofa x nonbinary!reader

The first snowfall of the season had blanketed the world outside in a thick, soft layer of white, transforming the landscape into something peaceful and still. Inside, the small cabin was warm, the flickering flames from the fire casting gentle shadows across the room. The scent of cinnamon and apples filled the air from the little pot on the stove, and Daryl’s steady presence beside you made everything feel grounded.

You sat curled up on the couch, wrapped in an oversized sweater, your knees drawn up to your chest as you watched the fire dance. It had been a long day, a tiring one, but in the quiet of the evening, everything felt like it was slowing down.

Daryl, who had been quiet all evening, sat across the room at the small wooden table, whittling a piece of wood with the same focus he always had when he was working on something. You knew he wasn’t exactly the type to open up about his feelings, but tonight, something felt different. It was a subtle shift—like he was paying extra attention to you in the way he moved, his gaze lingering on you for just a second longer than usual.

You weren’t sure if it was the way the firelight made his features softer, or if it was the way he kept glancing over at you while he worked, but there was something undeniably intimate about the moment. You both hadn’t said much to each other since dinner, but you didn’t feel the need to. The comfortable silence between you spoke volumes.

“Hey, Daryl,” you said, your voice quiet but enough to break through the hum of the room.

He paused his carving and looked up, his brown eyes softening when they met yours. “Yeah?”

“You doing alright?”

His lips quirked up slightly, and he rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah. Just thinkin’.”

You tilted your head, the curiosity gnawing at you. “Thinkin’ about what?”

He let out a breath and shook his head, turning his attention back to the wood in his hands. “Stuff. Things, y’know?”

You smiled softly at his gruffness. Daryl always had a way of making the simplest things sound like a mystery, but you didn’t push him. Instead, you decided to give him the space he clearly needed, leaning back into the couch and wrapping your arms around your knees once more.

The fire crackled and popped in the silence, and you let your thoughts wander as the warmth from the flames spread through the room. There was something about the calmness of the moment that made your heart flutter—a quiet kind of love that had been growing between you both without either of you saying much about it.

Daryl’s head tilted slightly, and after a few moments, he let out a sigh, almost like he was gathering his courage. “You ever think about… what comes next?” he asked, his voice low.

You looked over at him, surprised by the sudden vulnerability in his tone. Daryl wasn’t one to talk about the future often, and when he did, it was always wrapped in a layer of uncertainty. It wasn’t like him to voice his fears, but tonight, it felt like he was reaching for something—something you couldn’t quite name.

“Yeah,” you replied, your voice just as soft, “I think about it sometimes. About what’s gonna happen. What we’re gonna do.”

He nodded, his hands pausing in their movements. “It’s hard, huh? Not knowin’. I mean, we don’t even know what tomorrow’s gonna bring. Let alone months or years from now.”

You watched him for a moment, seeing the uncertainty flicker in his eyes. It was rare to see Daryl like this—open, vulnerable, unsure. It made your chest tighten in a way that felt both comforting and heartbreaking.

“You don’t have to have all the answers, Daryl,” you said gently, pulling your legs underneath you and sitting up. “None of us do.”

He looked at you, his eyes searching yours, and you could see the weight of his thoughts in the way his brow furrowed. “I know, but—” He paused, then let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. “I just—I wanna make sure you’re safe. You’re important to me.”

Your heart skipped, and you felt something soft bloom in your chest. The quiet affection in his words, the way he cared even though he didn’t always show it, made your throat tighten. You knew he wasn’t someone who expressed his emotions easily, but hearing him say it so plainly was… well, it meant everything.

“Daryl,” you whispered, moving closer to him on the couch, “I’m already safe. As long as I’ve got you, I’m okay.”

His eyes softened, and for a long moment, he didn’t say anything. But you didn’t need him to. His silence spoke volumes, and you could feel the warmth between you both grow with each passing second.

You reached out slowly, your hand finding his, and when he didn’t pull away, you gently squeezed his fingers. “You don’t have to worry so much,” you said softly. “We’ve got time. We’ll figure it out, together.”

Daryl squeezed your hand back, his thumb brushing over your knuckles, the small but meaningful gesture making your heart flutter.

He looked down at your hand in his, then back up to your eyes. “Together,” he repeated, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

In that moment, everything else seemed to fade away. The worries about the future, the uncertainty that came with each day—it didn’t matter. What mattered was that you were here, together. In the quiet, gentle moments like these, you both found the kind of peace that the world couldn’t take away.

After a beat, Daryl gave a small, gruff laugh. “You’re right. Guess I just… sometimes forget that.”

You leaned into his side, resting your head against his shoulder. “We’re figuring it out, one step at a time. No rush.”

His arm draped over your shoulders, pulling you closer as he settled against the back of the couch. For a moment, neither of you spoke. There was no need to. The simple act of being near each other, of sharing this quiet space together, was enough.

And in that moment, the future didn’t seem so scary. You had each other, and that was all that mattered.

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Authors Note: who else loves a muppet christmas carol?!

[d8nielaa]

Hey!

I was wondering if you could do some Daryl comfort? Non-binary reader, Maybe add in some angst, like say they got into an argument and this would be the talk afterwards? Just overall hurt/comfort style if you can :) thanks! Have a good day🫶

Authors Note: yes ofc anon! we luv daryl tofa in this house

I Love You, I'm Sorry

Daryl Tofa x non-binary!reader

The argument had been ugly. It started with something small—something that didn’t even matter in the grand scheme of things. But it had snowballed, as most arguments do when frustration builds up too high, when words are thrown without thinking.

You didn’t know when you’d started shouting, but you did know that the look in Daryl’s eyes, the way his jaw tightened, the way his fists clenched, felt like he was retreating farther and farther away with every word you threw at him.

When it was over, there were no apologies, just the cold realization that maybe you’d pushed him too far. Maybe you had done something that made him think you didn’t belong with him, with the group, like you didn’t deserve to be there.

You couldn’t look at him the way you had before. It felt like something had cracked between you two, and it wasn’t something you could fix with just a few kind words.

You were sitting by the fire, a few feet away from where Daryl had wandered off. Your knees were hugged to your chest, arms wrapped around them tightly, trying to keep yourself from falling apart.

"Hey," a voice broke through the quiet, softer than you expected. You looked up, seeing Daryl standing a little ways away, his posture stiff, like he wasn’t sure if he should come closer. His usual confidence was missing, replaced by uncertainty. "Can we talk?"

You didn’t answer right away. Instead, you pulled your blanket tighter around your shoulders, staring at the crackling flames. You knew you couldn’t avoid him forever, but the idea of facing him—of hearing him say something else that might hurt—was almost too much to bear.

Daryl didn’t press you. He just stood there for a moment, waiting, his eyes scanning the ground like he was gathering the right words. Finally, he took a few slow steps closer, sitting down next to you, careful to give you space, like he was afraid you might pull away.

"You okay?" he asked, his voice low and rough.

You didn’t look at him as you spoke, trying to keep your voice steady, though it wavered. "I don’t know, Daryl. I’m not sure if I’m okay."

He sighed, his breath shaky, but he didn’t reach out just yet. "I didn’t mean what I said earlier," he murmured, the words almost drowned out by the sound of the crackling fire. "I didn’t want to hurt you. I just—"

"You always do that," you cut him off, your voice louder than you intended. "You push people away when you don’t know how to deal with things. And then you act like it’s no big deal, like I should just get over it. Like I’m just supposed to understand you without you ever explaining anything."

Daryl winced, his face tightening. "I don’t do it on purpose. You gotta know that." His voice cracked slightly as he continued, looking down at his hands, trying to steady them. "I just… I don’t know how to fix things when they go wrong, okay? I don’t know how to say what I’m feelin’, and I’m not good with this stuff. I’m not good with… feelings."

The frustration in your chest was suffocating, but the softness in his voice made it difficult to stay angry for long. You turned your head slightly to glance at him, catching the rawness in his eyes. There was something in his expression that made your heart ache, something that reminded you that maybe, just maybe, he didn’t always know how to show it, but he was trying.

"I don’t want to feel like I’m always the one putting in the effort to fix things," you whispered, your throat tight. "It feels like I’m always the one having to make things right. Always the one who’s there to pick up the pieces after everything falls apart."

Daryl’s face softened, and for a moment, he looked like he was going to say something else. But then, he just… didn’t. Instead, he leaned forward, elbows on his knees, staring into the fire, his lips pressed together like he was trying to keep the words inside.

You both sat in silence for a while, the weight of the conversation hanging between you. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but it was heavy, the kind of silence that demanded understanding but wasn’t quite ready to give it.

Finally, Daryl shifted, his hand reaching out—tentative at first, like he was waiting for you to stop him, to pull away. But when you didn’t, his fingers brushed against your wrist, just enough to send a shiver through you.

"I’m sorry," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I never meant for you to feel like that. I don’t always know the right way to… to make things better, but I care about you, alright? More than I can say."

You wanted to say something, anything, but the lump in your throat made it hard to breathe, let alone talk. Instead, you just nodded, eyes on the ground. The warmth of his hand on yours was comforting in a way you hadn’t expected. It wasn’t perfect. It wasn’t the apology you were looking for. But in that moment, it was enough.

"I’m just… I’m trying to do better," Daryl said, his voice raw. "I don’t want you to feel like you gotta do all the work. I wanna help. I just—" He stopped himself, shaking his head. "I don’t know what you need from me sometimes. And I hate that."

"You don’t always need to know the right thing to say," you whispered, your voice barely audible in the quiet night air. "I just need you to be here. To be real with me, even when you don’t know what to do."

Daryl looked over at you, eyes softening with something you hadn’t seen before: vulnerability. He gave your hand a gentle squeeze, leaning his shoulder against yours, the two of you sitting in silence as the fire flickered in front of you.

"You’ve got me," he muttered, his voice quieter now. "I’m not goin’ anywhere, okay?"

You let out a breath you hadn’t realized you were holding, a weight lifting from your chest. "Okay."

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Authors Note: I LOVE YOU IM SORRY

[d8nielaa]

Requests Rules!

Authors Note: Hi everyone! I've had this account for a while and I'm finally getting around to writing instead of just reposting. I currently only write for The Outsiders Musical, but im planning to expand my palette very soon.

The Outsiders (Musical)

~ Brody Grant & Ponyboy Curtis

~ Sky Lakota-Lynch & Johnny Cade

~ Joshua Boone & Dallas Winston

~ Alex Joseph Grayson & Dallas Winston

~ Jason Schmidt & Sodapop Curtis

~ Brent Comer & Darrel Curtis

~ Daryl Tofa & Two-Bit Matthews

~ Tilly Evans-Kruger & Ace

~ Jena VanElslander & Ace (WLW ONLY)

~ Renni Anthony Magee & Steve Randle

~ Emma Pittman & Cherry Valance

~ Kevin William Paul & Bob Sheldon

~ SarahGrace Mariani & Marcia

~ Melody Rose & Bev (Beverly)

~ Dan Berry & Paul Holden

~ RJ Higton & Chet Baker

~ Barton Cowperthwaite & Brill

~ Cole Zieser & Trip

~ John Patrick Collins (JPC) & His Characters

~ Victor Carillo Tracey & His Characters

~ Hailey Hyde & Her Characters

~ Davis Wayne & Chet Baker

~ Anna K Bermudez & Her Characters

I write: fluff, angst, hurt and comfort, basically all the sweet stuff! I also write head cannons, oneshots, and maybe some stories..!

i can write certain character x character ships if you request!

please state what gender you'd like the reader to be! (ex: can I please request [insert person/character] x fem!reader or male!reader or nonbinary!reader)

I don’t write: anything to do with smut, (i am a minor) homophobia, incest, pedophilia or anything of the sorts.

~ This is a safe space so please feel free to request anything! Or if you ever want someone to talk to, always feel free to talk to me! There is no judgement here and any hate or derogatory actions towards myself or others will be reported and blocked.

~ Please let me know if there is anyone else you want me to write for!

UPDATED ON MARCH 17, 2025