verifiedgoddess-afterhours

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

10K ~ Z Nation Headcanons (pt 2!)

(guys omg this cutie patootie i'm dying)

General:

Loves the sound of rain. Idk, he just looks like a rain lover. Like the sound would comfort him, probably reminds him of a simpler time before the apocalypse

ADORES kids.

Would love some of his own, but doesn't want to bring them into an apocalyptic world because he would hate to cause them pain like that.

Repeats his Z count to himself so he doesn't forget

If he had access to Spotify or music, would listen to things like Greta Van Fleet, Pink Floyd, Queen,

Speaking of Queen: his favorite song by them is totally Good Ol' Fashioned Loverboy

Is a surprisingly good singer! Sometimes if you were quiet on the road and paid attention, you could catch tiny snippets of him humming a tune while scavenging

At least when he thinks nobody is listening to him lol

Barely sleeps at night - is too worried about being snuck up on to sleep well.

Also, gets nightmares pretty frequently. To calm himself down after a nightmare he'd probably get up and clean his gun, really taking his time to take it apart and make sure he got every speck of dust.

Remember when Addy mentioned in that one episode that 10K did her eyebrows and she does his?(sometime in season two) - ever since she started doing his, he gets grouchy when his start to look unkept.

Addy also taught him tons of random facts about girls' hygiene - I wouldn't be surprised if he knew how to do eyeliner flawlessly or knew to put on SPF before foundation, etc.

Speaking of, if he ever found pads/tampons/etc, would 100% stow them away just in case Addy or someone else needs them.

When he scavenges, he always looks for other people besides himself. Once he gets his ammo, he's happy. Then he looks for everyone else - a pair of new sunglasses Doc might like, snacks for Addy, or bandanas for Warren.

Is actually very conscious about how he dresses! not even just for practicality's sake, but enjoys putting together outfits that look nice.

Even if the only people who see them are zombies, he still likes to look good. It make him feel more in control of his life instead of afraid for it.

Romantic:

teehee i am giggling already hahaha

He is a soulmate kind of guy. His parents had a loving marriage and he could only ever see himself being with one person. Once he's in, he's in until zombie bite do you part.

Puts in a ton of effort to make the apocalypse better for his partner. Whether that be taking watch so they can sleep or giving them the good gear, he's doing it.

Love language = Acts of Service and Physical Touch(prove me wrong)

Murphy teases him endlessly about it and he gets sooo flustered, but never denies it. He would rather endure all of Murphy's teasing(no matter how much it pissed him off) than ever entertain the idea of lying and pretending he doesn't care as much about his partner

At any sign of injury or illness, he's by their side. Picking edible plants to use for tea to treat ailments, going scavenging for supplies, protecting them if they can't do it themselves - he is looking after them!

If you tell him your favorite food, then he's going out to try and get it. Even if it means using up more ammo to find it - he cares that much.

Once he figures out what makes his crush laugh, he goes out of his way to do it. Tripping over a root? Yep, he'll take the bruises just to see you smile. Cracking jokes at Murphy's expense? He's loves doing that anyways - you laughing is just a bonus.

Eventually, after he's been with someone a while, he gets more bold

His flirting gets better and LOVES to fluster his partner to see the cute little blush on their cheeks.

His version of flirting(until you teach him otherwise) is definitely teasing, playful bullying, etc.

And somehow, it works.

Is totally clueless to how beautiful he is. If you call him pretty boy, he's denying it because he doesn't realize how gorgeous he is to you

So you have to show him

Will call his lover pretty or handsome ALL. THE. TIME. Even if you are covered in zombie guts, haven't showered in three years, you're still the best-looking person around for him to look at.

Would purposefully take watch to make sure he gets alone time with you

Is chatty, but not all the time. Sometimes he loves just sitting and enjoying your company, your hands intertwined as everyone else sleeps.

Has a plan of your future together. What you all need to live a comfortable life, where he thinks you might find it, where you should go, etc. He wants your future to be safe enough to just enjoy each other's company without fearing for your lives.

Loves showering with you in the least sexual way possible(although... jkjk). You're his and he is yours, and he loves taking care of you and being taken care of like that.

Spicy:

I've said this before and I'll say it again: he is LOUD. Often has to cover his mouth with his hand or bite down on something(aka: you) to keep from everyone hearing.

Has so many weapons on him that sometimes he gets frustrated having to take it all off that he just... doesn't. Just gets his pants loose enough and then absolutely ravishes you.

Giggles the entire day after

Which means of course everyone knows about it and teases him endlessly.

Is scared of being rough with you until he realizes how much you love it, then changes his mind.

You guys typically don't have tons of time - unless you're extremely lucky - but when you do, he will take literal hours to coax it out of both of you before you call it a night.

this man is a SWITCH

Likes to be in control, but is definitely a gentle dom. He'll give you commands in a low tone, his hands firm as they guide you but always full of care.

HOWEVER, once he truly trusts you he'll do anything you say whenever you say it. One word and he's on his knees, staring up at you with wide blue eyes as he waits.

Likes being called a good boy(OOP who said that???)

Once you guys start experimenting, he can't stop. Has let you ruin so many of his bandanas tying him up(using knots he taught you) and making him fall apart.

Speaking of experimenting: not that he wouldn't love any kind of intimacy y'all have, but would try to see what was left in sex stores along your travels to spice things up a bit - loves everything he finds even if he isn't sure at first.

Eye contact the entire time... except for when he has to burrow his face in your neck to keep from being too loud(he fails)

Purposefully wears his goggles while y'all do it so you can tug them around his neck, reminding him that you're in charge. It gives him a little thrill.

Begs nonsensically the closer he gets to cumming. Words just spill out and tears gather on his lashes as he babbles anything that comes to mind(heh, see what i did there?)

Once he discovers how much 'yes ma'am' or 'yes sir' turns you on, he used that cruelly to his advantage at the best - and worst - times

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

Can you do something angsty with Cassandra where she and the reader are dating and instead of 10k killing her its the reader, if not have a good day!!

The cut that always bleeds (cassandra x fem!reader)

(wc: 4.2k)

sorry it took me so long - i started a new job!! but i had sooo much fun writing this! plz send more requests!

⌞ɪɴ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ... the two apocalyptic lovers discover the real consequences of murphy's bite, and it's not pretty⌝

(y/n) could recall how heavy her heart had gotten as she carried her dying girlfriend in her arms.

Ten Thousand offered to take a turn carrying her, which she had strongly refused.

"No," she had practically snarled in the poor boy's face. "she's mine, I'd carry her all the way to California if I had to."

He'd backed off after that, understanding her protectiveness over the woman in her arms, whose skin was clammy to the touch.

The infection had long since set in, and had only gotten worse. And it was all her damn fault.

"(y/n)," Cassandra's dry rasp of a voice reached her eyes, and she opened up her large brown eyes to stare up at her.

"I'm here, Cassie," she cooed, pressing a tender kiss to her hair.

"It's not... you fault."

(y/n) blinked harshly, trying to keep the burning in her eyes at bay. She wouldn't - couldn't - cry now. Not after she had been so strong for the others this whole time. And especially not now, when her girlfriend needed her to be strong.

She was too afraid to see what would happen if she gave up now.

So, she stubbornly refused to give up.

Even when Cassandra begged for her to just leave her - to give up on her - she had held firmly onto that hope that everything would be alright.

That they would be alright.

They had to be, right? After all, it had been her and Cass against the world for so long, she wasn't sure how to handle this world without her.

Even as she kissed her girlfriend goodbye and whispered promises to return as soon as possible in her ear, she held on hope. Hope that she would miraculously heal enough to make the trip with them.

Now, sitting with Addy, Doc, and 10K, trying to formulate a plan, that hope was one wrong look away from fizzling out. All these months of trying to wrangle Murphy back towards California, (y/n) had foolishly clung to any strand of hope that she could.

Deep down, she knew that her lover was already lost. Those dark eyes, once so full of love and light, were nothing but deadened and lifeless as they stared at her now.

"She's not Cassandra," 10K said grimly, staring at the dark-haired woman crouched defensively nearby, watching their every move. "Not anymore."

"What does that mean,' Addy asked him, glancing at (y/n) for support. But the girl was busy staring at the ground in front of her boots, heart burning in her chest.

"I don't know, man," Doc sighed, rubbing his white beard as he surveyed the woman. "She is getting weirder. And you've seen how strong she is."

"She wouldn't hurt us," Addy defended weakly. "not really."

(y/n)'s expression was distant. "I wouldn't be so sure."

"Seriously? You truly believe that? After everything you two have-"

(y/n)'s eyes flashed up to her friend's, a dangerous warning. "That thing, is not my girl. Not anymore. Murphy made sure of that."

Doc placed a tentative hand on her shoulder, which she shrugged off. The anger beneath her skin seemed scald her, anger directed at the man whose actions had led her lose the one precious thing she had left in this world.

Cassandra.

"Now!" Addy's command sent the four of them flying into motion. They each fled a different direction, hoping that at least a few of them would be able to escape through the forest.

As she ran, arms pumping by her sides, (y/n) couldn't help but be reminded of a different time she'd ran like this.

"Cassandra!" She shouted, feet tearing their way through the deserted streets of Philadelphia. At least, she thought they were deserted, until she caught a glimpse of the men pursuing the newest member of their group.

She pushed herself to run faster, her eyes falling on the waves of shiny black hair shaking with the woman's movement as she fled. Her lungs might have burned, but the fear in her chest burned brighter.

"Sunshine," one of them called out, the creepy singsong tone of his voice sending shudders through her.

Shit, she was fast.

(y/n) passed the entrance to an alleyway which veered off the main road. Grimacing, she sprinted between the buildings and caught Cassandra around the waist as the woman came barreling around a corner.

Before she could scream, the girl yanked her towards a nearby building, a hand clasped around her mouth. Her body pushed them both against the wall to tuck them safely in the shadows.

They held their breath as the men ran right past them.

(y/n) exhaled shakily. "Sorry I scared you," she said quietly after checking that they were gone. "What the hell was that?"

The woman nibbled her lip, looking around anxiously. "You can't judge me."

"Why would I-"

Addy's bloodcurdling scream seemed to echo between the bark of the trees. (y/n) stopped in her tracks, breathing heavily.

"Shit."

Without sparing much time to think about what she was doing, the girl turned back the same direction she'd came from quickly. Pine needles scattered beneath her feet as she changed direction and scrambled back to Addy.

Her screams grew closer, and soon enough Doc and 10K were by her side.

"Is that Addy?" Doc asked, looking anxiously ahead. (y/n) nodded as they jogged back to the clearing together.

"Cass," she bellowed, catching the brunette's attention "Leave her alone!"

The dark-haired woman glanced up at her, her dark eyes almost otherworldly. Her irises seemed colder, and almost looked like they were swirling.

Just like Murphy's.

She had her former friend pinned down beneath her, face pressed against the ground. Her arm was twisted at an odd angle behind her back as she begged Cassandra to stop.

Doc and 10K helped get Addy away, as (y/n) stood between them and Cassandra. The woman she had fallen for might be gone, but she was hoping that something - hell, maybe muscle memory - would kick in to keep her from being harmed.

She'd realize later how wrong she was.

"Nobody leaves," God, even her voice felt different. You could always tell how Cass was feeling by the sound of her voice, but right now all (y/n) knew was that she would kill Murphy for what he had taken from her.

Happily.

Addy was crying in Doc's arms, her hand cradled to her chest. (y/n) received Cassandra's glare, acting as a buffer. If she did anything to harm anyone else, at least she would be there to stop it.

No matter what.

"I told you," (y/n) said as they retreated back to their camp, defeated. "it's not her. She's not our friend anymore." Doc sighed heavily before helping Addy with her injured shoulder. All the while, Cassandra crouched low to the ground across the clearing, eyes locked on (y/n).

Who had to keep reminding her that this was not the loving, protective, brave, woman she once knew. She exhaled and pressed her palms to her eyes, willing her head and heart to stop fighting.

Cassandra's lips had been pulled back into a vicious snarl, so unlike her usual smile that she wore around (y/n).

As the others nervously watched Addy, the girl kept Murphy's little pet in her sights. He'd left not that long ago, and had told her to make sure that no-one leaves.

Having made her decision, the girl stood up and took a deep breath to steel herself - locking her heartache into a box where it couldn't hurt her anymore.

"Get ready to run."

Doc, Addy, and 10K all stared at her, jaws agape. (y/n) paid them no attention, instead striding across the leaf-littered ground towards the figure across the clearing.

Slowly, she approached the woman who had once let her hold her on dark, cold nights. Who had done the same for her, when the apocalypse became too much for either of them to bear.

Despite all its horrors, she was grateful that the apocalypse had drawn them together.

Even if it ended like this.

"Cassandra."

The sharpshooter spoke gently, as if she was trying not to spook an animal. Or, you know, whatever had taken over her girlfriend's body.

"Cassandra, we need to talk."

Her focus was still mostly on the others behind (y/n), although her gaze occasionally flickered to her face and then back again.

"You really hurt Addy, Cass."

No reaction.

"Cassandra, listen," she slowly raised a hand to delicately tuck a dark wave behind her ear. Immediately her eyes darted to her and stayed there, her shoulders tense.

"We need to find Murphy. We want to help him, but we need to find him first."

(y/n) held her breath as Cassandra stared at her, considering. Then, she replied in a low rasp.

"Nobody leaves."

The tiny flame of hope that flickered in (y/n)'s chest was snuffed out, and her face fell. Slowly, she looked over her shoulder at the others, adrenaline already rising as she mentally prepared for what was to come.

At the sight of her signal, the rest of her family tore off towards the forest, running as if their lives depended on it. Which, technically, it did.

Cassandra leapt to her feet and the girl stomped down her guilt as she wrapped her arms around her waist from behind, slowing her down as best she could.

(y/n) held her breath, containing the giggle that was ready to be let out. If she did, Cassandra would surely hear her.

The dark-haired woman was unaware of her presence as (y/n) crept forward, before wrapping her arms around her to hug her from behind.

Cassandra let out a squeal before laughing, feeling her girlfriend's arms around her.

"Don't sneak up on me like that!"

(y/n) pressed a kiss to Cassandra's smiling cheek as her hand reached behind to cup (y/n)'s neck so she could bring their mouths together.

"Aw, but it's so fun!"

Her girlfriend growled as (y/n) hands reached to try to lock around her chest. Nails raked down her forearm and she hissed in pain before an elbow to her ribcage sent her stumbling back.

Cassandra paused, looking at her for a moment before turning towards where the others had disappeared to. The cry of rage that she let out was horrific, icy fear spreading through (y/n)'s body.

"Cassandra."

Nothing could have prepared her for the way that the woman launched herself at (y/n), fueled by anger and blinded by Murphy.

(y/n) took a few running steps towards her as well, meeting her in the middle. At the last second she ducked under Cassandra's arm, narrowly avoiding getting clawed.

As the other woman stumbled forward, (y/n) pivoted, pushing her so she stood between her attacker and the people she wanted to protect.

She couldn't let Cassandra catch any of them, no matter the cost.

She wouldn't lose anyone else to the monster that Murphy created, even if it killed a piece of her to admit that.

(y/n) drew unsteady breaths as Cassandra seethed. Between one second and the next she launched herself at the younger woman. (y/n) flailed as Cassandra butted her forehead against her face, crying out.

"Cassie, please!"

Blood trickled a warm path down the side of her face from the impact, stars dazzling her vision as she tried to gain her bearings.

"Do you think we'll make it?"

(y/n) blinked at Cassandra's question before glancing over at her. Their legs dangled off the edge of the truck as they sun set. It's golden light brought the colors of Cassie's eyes to life, shifting from deep browns to lighter amber.

"Honestly? I have no idea," (y/n) sighed, giving her girlfriend's hand a quick squeeze. "but I hope so."

Cassandra's grin was dazzling as she leaned her head on her shoulder.

"If we don't, I'm still glad I met you."

Despite the dizziness from Cassandra's attack, (y/n) managed to hook her foot around her ankle, sending Cassandra sprawling into the dirt.

The girl panted, wiping blood from her nose as Cassandra jumped back onto her feet.

"Cass, we don't have to do this," (y/n) practically begged, as if saying her name would bring her back.

"I love the way you say my name," Cassandra murmured softly into the crook of (y/n)'s neck, marked by her lips.

(y/n) inhaled shakily, gripping her girlfriend's hips. "H-how do I say it?" Her cheeks were warm.

"Like it's special," she bit her lip, large eyes gazing at (y/n). "Precious."

(y/n) gently grasped her chin, pulling their faces closer together.

"You are precious to me, Cassandra."

"Nobody leaves," she repeated again, those two words apparently her only vocabulary. (y/n) would kill just to hear her own name fall from her lips again, murmured like a prayer.

But all that remained was Murphy's command - nothing to show of how much they had meant to one another.

(y/n) groaned as her back hit the large stone, Cassandra used her inhuman strength to send her flying through the air. Gingerly, she sat up. For the second time that day, the world seemed fuzzy.

She wheezed from the force of the impact, rising unsteadily to her feet. Everything ached, but the physical hurt was nothing compared to the anger building inside of her.

The sharpshooter took a few unsteady steps forwards, her gaze finally landing on Cassandra's feral expression. She hesitated briefly before turning and run, fear burning her lungs with every breath.

Not that she was afraid of her her former girlfriend, but rather of what she might be forced to do.

Cassandra's full weight pinned knocked the breath from her lungs as she hit the dirt, their bodies crashing together. The woman's knees were on either side of her torso, her arms pinned beneath them.

There was nothing she could do as the woman grabbed her face and lifted her head before slamming it into the dirt. (y/n) coughed, the material making its way into her mouth and eyes.

The girl cried out in pain - her first during the entire altercation. But Cassandra didn't hesitate.

(y/n)'s hand reached out and locked around her ankle, keeping the woman from running off. The leg she didn't have in her grip swung towards her face, the impact sending a shock down her spine.

The taste of blood flooded her mouth as she grappled with her violent opponent. Panting, she was able to pin her with her body, keeping her from fleeing any further.

"Cass-"

The woman screeched and flipped them over so (y/n) was beneath her, her eyes wild.

"Here," Cassandra motioned for her to cover her eyes. (y/n) obeyed quickly, mouth quirked up.

"What's this?"

The sound of her lover's laugh was all the confirmation she needed - she had been up to something after all.

"I found this and thought you should have it."

Her fingers were gently lowered from her eyes by Cassie's hand, revealing a polished dagger held in her outstretched palm.

"Happy birthday!"

(y/n) raised an eyebrow playfully. "Cass, you don't even know what month it is-"

She quieted her with a stern, but playful, glare. "Just take the gift, (y/n)."

"Whatever you say, gorgeous."

A sound escaped the woman, a frustrated snarl. As if she was upset that (y/n) had survived this far into their fight.

One of Cassandra's hands gripped her jaw, the other the back of her head. She began to apply pressure, sending pain jolting through the girl's body.

She was trying to break her fucking neck.

Sheer panic forced her hand to reach blindly down towards her boot, to the knife hidden there.

"I don't want to die," her companion whimpered softly in the darkness.

(y/n) wove her arms around Cassandra as best she could in the enclosed space. "You aren't going to die. I've got you. I promise."

Her fingers closed against the hilt of the blade, her eyes scrunched shut so she wouldn't have to watch what she was about to do.

That morning, she was woken up with a kiss, which she accepted greedily. "When we get out of this, we're going to start over."

"We are?" Cassandra gave her a rueful smile. (y/n) nodded, grinning.

"We're going to start over - together. Find somewhere quiet and live out the rest of our lives. Maybe get a cat."

"That sounds amazing. And definitely a cat."

Her hand shook as she tightened her grip around the blade.

"You love me, don't you?"

"Of course I love you, Cass. How could I not?"

Cassandra snarled above her as (y/n) drove her birthday gift into the side of her neck.

The pressure on her neck instantly disappeared as Cassandra's movements halted. (y/n) opened her horrified eyes to stare up into Cassandra's slack face.

Warm, hot blood dripped from her mouth onto the side of her cheek. That wasn't the only stain on (y/n), however. Her heart, too, would always carry the burden of what she had done.

Scarcely breathing, (y/n) pulled the blade from her neck with a sickening squelch. More blood ran down the wound, covering the ground around them.

Their eyes met for a second before her girlfriend drew her last breath with a gentle shudder. At the last second before the body slumped forwards, her warm eyes seemed to return to normal.

To the Cass (y/n) had loved, not the Cassandra that Murphy had used.

Delicately, (y/n) rolled the corpse off of her and sat up on her knees. Numbness spread from her fingers to the very crown of her head, as the weight of what she had done came crashing down.

Cassandra hadn't been the same since Murphy had left that mark on her cheek, but now she was dead.

And it was all (y/n)'s fault.

There was nothing she could do but stare down at her lifeless body beneath her, wishing it were her lying dead on the ground instead.

"I'm sorry," she managed through a burning throat before silent tears tracked down her face. "I'm sorry I couldn't save you."

She squeezed her eyes shut, bowing her head. Briefly, she wondered how she ended up here. If Cassandra had never met her, then she would still be alive.

That thought haunted her as she picked up a shovel and started digging.

Her numbness had faded to a fiery anger, resentment towards Murphy giving her the energy to bury her dead lover.

Gently, she scooped the last bit of dirt to cover her scarred face until the Earth protected her corpse.

She could not protect Cassandra in life, but she would be damned if she wouldn't protect her in death.

The smell of freshly-turned earth kept her company as she stared down at the grave. The blood on her face had gone tacky, but was still there as evidence of what she'd been forced to do.

Not long after, the others joined her again - Warren and Vasquez with them once more.

"What's that?" Doc asked her, staring down at the ground.

Bile rose in her throat, eyes burning. "Cassandra."

"Oh my god," Addy fell to her knees beside the grave.

"What happened?" Warren asked, voice rising with worry.

"I did what I had to do," (y/n) stated honestly, wanting nothing more than to lie down beside Cassie's grave and never leave.

"You mercied her?"

"She gave me no choice."

But that was bullshit, and (y/n) knew it. She could have easily let Cassandra kill her then and there, but that would have meant putting the others in danger.

At the end of the day, she had chosen to kill instead of be killed. And, worse, kill someone she had loved - even if she hadn't been the same person she had fallen in love with.

She could only hope that Cassandra - wherever she had had ended up - would forgive her.

Hopefully, she'd reunite with her one day and she could beg for her forgiveness.

But until then, she would figure out how to make Murphy pay for what he had done, even if it meant killing again.

BONUS:

When she opened her eyes, she knew she was dead.

Through the back doors of the van, (y/n) could see the beach and the bright blue of the ocean lapping at its shore. The bed was warm, the sheets soft against her skin.

When was the last time she had slept in a bed?

As she stirred, the bed dipped slightly as a mass of fur settled itself on her chest. The cat purred happily, blinking its dazzling green eyes at her.

At first, it felt like waking up from a deep sleep. She was a little disoriented, but as soon as she saw that familiar face, she knew she no longer had to worry about the apocalypse.

"Good morning."

Cassandra looked the exact same as she had the day she'd told her she loved her.

The same dark, silky hair that fell in waves past her shoulders. Unable to resist, (y/n) tucked a strand beside the woman's ear. She felt warm to the touch, not cold as death like the last time she had ever seen her.

"Cass?"

The woman chuckled. "I've missed you." (y/n)'s vision went blurry as tears flooded her eyes. Immediately Cassandra was wiping them away and pulling her close to her.

"Hey, hey, hey, why are you crying?"

She couldn't speak - couldn't think. All this time, she had sworn to herself that when she met Cassandra in the afterlife, she would apologize.

She would fall to her knees before her and beg for forgiveness, eventually. But right now, all she was capable of doing was burying her face in her hair and hugging her tightly.

This seemed to upset the cat, who mewled loudly. Cass burst out laughing and sat up to scratch behind its ears.

(y/n) sat up, still unable to believe her eyes. Her heart seemed to beat harder, full of more love than it had been when she was living after she killed Cassandra.

"I killed you."

Her lover paused, her lips pulling down into a frown. "That was not your fault."

"It was me who stabbed you, I-"

She was cut off by a kiss, which she gratefully accepted. Her hands pulled the woman closer by her shoulders, not willing to let go of the moment just yet.

She intertwined their fingers, thumb gently brushing along her knuckles.

"It was not your fault."

"I know."

"(y/n), I-"

She was quickly interrupted.

"Cass, I'm sorry," her voice broke as the weight of everything she had done came crashing down on her heart, a weight in her chest. "I am so, so sorry I couldn't keep you safe. That I let him turn you into one of those things."

"(y/n)-"

"And I'm sorry that I killed you. Please, please, you have to understand: it destroyed me. I should have never grabbed that knife, I should have let you kill me."

She paused at Cassandra's amused look, her mouth angle upwards into a small smile. "What?"

"Nothing," she shook her head fondly. "You haven't changed a bit."

(y/n) pursed her lips to keep them from quivering, saying nothing.

"As I was saying," The brunette gave her a pointed look. "I forgive you. If you had let me hurt anyone else under Murphy's control, I might have hated you a little bit."

"Wait-"

She raised a hand. "My turn." (y/n) nodded, immediately shutting her mouth. She owed Cassandra that much.

"When Murphy bit me," Cassandra continued, staring out at the ocean beyond. "I was still in there. But it was like watching a movie - I couldn't do anything. I know you didn't want to kill me, (y/n). But I'm glad you did."

(y/n) pressed two fingers to her temples, massaging in gentle circles. "You're... happy I killed you?"

She shook her head. "No, that sucked. You know how long I waited in this van for you?"

(y/n) laughed tearfully, Cassandra gently reaching to wipe the wetness from her eyes.

"You really waited for me? This whole time?"

"Of course I did. I love you."

"I love you too," the girl professed, kissing her forehead. She paused, taking a moment to look around. "Where are we, anyway?"

Cassandra cocked her head, looking out the window. "I have no idea, actually."

(y/n) grinned and scooted out of the bed, letting her feet hit the sand. She held out her hand to Cassandra, who knelt in their bed.

"Let's go find out."

"I like the sound of that."

She gripped her lover's hand tightly as they walked down the warm sand, sunlight casting everything in a dazzling glow.

It was then that she realized this was heaven: a beautiful beach, a van with a cat, and - most important of all - the woman who loved her even in death.

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

^^I have ideas for both, but I'm not fully sure which one to update!! Let me know <3

-vg.

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

Do you get deja vu? (murphy x fem!reader) part 2 of this request!

(wc: 3.6k)

⌞ɪɴ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ... (y/n) accompanies Murphy on a supply run, as a result of George's matchmaking and ulterior motives⌝

--Altura, present day

"George, please tell me you aren't serious."

Her friend shrugged, but (y/n) could plainly see the mischievous edge to her mouth. She would bet anything that her and Warren had conspired together to plan this.

"Sorry, I'm as serious as a heart attack."

(y/n) groaned and put her head into her hands, bracing her elbows on her knees. "This is unjust."

"Actually," George held up a finger "since I run Newmerica-"

(y/n) raised her head to shoot her friend a playful glare. George had noticed, in the few weeks since Murphy and his crew had joined them, her glares hadn't seemed as harsh.

She'd begun to smile more, but George didn't say anything because she was worried that (y/n) would stop.

"Yeah, yeah," her friend drawled. "you're the boss, whatever. But are you sure I have to go with him?" George nodded seriously.

"I wish I could keep you here, but Murphy needs very specific equipment to finish this, and he won't be able to do it without you."

Her words rang in (y/n)'s head. Murphy needed her... to help synthesize the cure. But that was it.

Right?

"What about whats-his-face?" She inquired. George only gave her a confused look in response.

(y/n) groaned. "The one who lost his hand? It's... T... something?" George's face lit up with recognition.

"Ten Thousand?"

(y/n) nodded. "Yeah, he's the one who killed all those zombies, right? Why don't you send him? He's also travelled with Murphy before."

George pursed her lips. "You don't know?"

The woman frowned, leaning back in her seat. "I don't know what?"

"His girlfriend, Red, she's pregnant."

She couldn't stop her jaw from dropping. "Seriously? That was fast." George laughed, the sound warm and welcoming. It was lovely, really.

"No shit. Newmerica's first baby. Technicially."

"So, he can't leave. It's too risky, especially with a baby on the way."

"Exactly," her friend nodded seriously. "That's why I need you to go."

She stood up and nodded, knowing that this was her job as George's second-in-command. "I hear you. I'll make sure it gets done. Listen for me on the radio."

George sported a crooked grin as she lifted two fingers to her brow in a salute. "Good luck, (y/n)."

The ex-prison guard shot her a salute back, shaking her head as she left her friend's office. This was going to be a long road trip.

She tapped her left foot impatiently as she leaned against the truck, waiting for the man she was supposed to accompany on this supply run. The sun had risen not long ago, and they were supposed to leave at dawn.

Well, at least that about Murphy hadn't changed. He still ran by his own clock, not giving a shit about what anybody else had going on.

When his figure finally became visible, the ex-prison guard lifted an unimpressed eyebrow. She made a show of checking her digital watch before glaring at him.

"How thoughtful of you to finally grace me with your presence," Her sarcasm was obvious, but he simply gave her a smile.

"Well, good morning to you too, sunshine." His voice was light, almost cheerful. Like he thought it really was a good morning. The corner of her mouth was tempted to lift into a smile, but she tamped it down.

The woman wasn't stupid, she wasn't letting

She pointed at the back of the truck, where their supplies were located. "Bag goes in there. I'm driving."

He frowned, but she was already hopping into the driver's seat. She hadn't survived this many years in a zombie-infested world to die because of his horrible driving. She trusted herself, and George.

And that was it.

After throwing his bag in the back of the vehicle, Murphy slid gracefully into the passenger seat beside her.

"Whose wasting daylight now?" He challenged, giving her a pointed look. She glared at him before pointing down at his seatbelt buckle.

"Seatbelt."

"Seriously?"

"Do you want to make the cure or not?"

He scrunched his nose up in annoyance before quickly buckling himself into his seat.

"There," he waved his hands, showing her his buckled seatbelt with a flourish. "Happy?" She gave him a sickeningly sweet smile before hitting the gas.

"Yep."

--Somewhere in Montana

(y/n) lifted her hands over her head and leaned to the left, stretching her sore muscles. They'd been driving for two days, with only a few hour long breaks so she could nap, before they hit the road again.

The sun was slowly inching towards the horizon, so she had chosen to stop for the night and set up camp so they could both get some proper rest.

And Murphy?

Well, he never made anything easy. And he sure as hell wasn't making this easy on her. Which definitely didn't help her feel any better either.

"How far to this place, anyway?" She asked him, as they both sat around the embers of a slowly-dying fire. The woody crackled weakly, leaving the smell of smoke lingering in the woman's hair and clothes.

He tossed her the paper map they'd brought along with them, grumbling. "See for yourself."

(y/n) pinched the bridge of her nose, inhaling deeply. She would not throw the map back at him like a child. She would handle this like the responsible adult she was.

So, naturally, she stuck her tongue out at him when he wasn't looking, adulthood be damned. As he munched on the MREs they had brought, she studied their destination on the road map.

"How did you guys make it to Spokane, anyway?" (y/n) questioned with a raised eyebrow. She and Warren had chatted briefly about their misadventures that led them across the state, but the ex-guard wasn't given many juicy details.

"Let's just say," he sighed heavily, dark eyes piercing the ground in front of his feet. "Warren's one lucky bitch."

She furrowed her eyebrows. "Warren's the lucky one? I think you're the lucky one."

He huffed a quiet chuckle before settling his eyes on her. "Is that right?"

"You have someone who cares about you like she does, so absolutely. You're the lucky one, not her. Especially since she got stuck with your sorry ass."

He shook his head, grinning at her. "My, my, the apocalypse has changed you."

She stiffened. "I guess that's what happens when the world ends. People change."

"Amen."

The following morning, after a fitful sleep, the duo set off again. (y/n) yawned behind the wheel, having barely slept the night before. Every time she closed her eyes, she felt his eyes on her.

But every time she'd opened them, he was sleeping soundly on the other side of their campfire.

At least, that's what it had looked like.

In reality, Murphy was watching her. Trying to figure out what it was about her that gave him hope. Such a foreign thing, really. Hope was something he gave up on the second Dr. Merch had let those monsters bite him.

All those years ago, hope had abandoned him. And he'd lived without it since.

But seeing her again, the woman who used to pretend his winks didn't fluster her as the iron bars of his cell separated them, stirred something in him. The stupid glimmer of hope had settled in his belly, fluttering its wings whenever she looked at him.

All this time, everyone he had known never really cared about him. They just cared about what was in his damn blood. He was their best shot at a cure for the Z virus, and nothing more.

Except for her.

She was the only one who'd known him before, who pretended not to care whether or not he lived or died. Even back at that hellhole of a prison, however, Murphy knew she cared.

She thought she was better at pretending than she really was.

"Should you really be driving?" He asked apprehensively, his red face wary. She tried to glare at him, but the horrible sleeps were catching up to her.

"Should you really be commenting on my capabilities?"

He sighed and got out of the vehicle, before walking around the hood and opening the driver's door.

"Come on, hop out."

She raised her eyebrows. "Who died and made you the boss?"

The man scoffed. "Sweetheart, if you want us to survive this trip, I suggest you let me drive. I didn't survive this long to die because you fell asleep at the wheel."

She mustered up the energy to roll her eyes. "Yeah, right. Like we're any safer with you behind the wheel."

"(y/n)," he spoke her name seriously. "get out of the damn truck." Reluctantly, she undid her seatbelt and listened to him. Her ass had barely hit the passenger seat before she was sleeping, the gentle sound of the road acting like a lullaby.

It was nice, having a break from Murphy's incessant presence and the anxiety she'd been riddled with since they'd taken off on this run together.

-- Spokane, Washington

Murphy awoke her with a gentle shake of her shoulder. The now-awake woman blinked her eyes open groggily, taking in the scenery around them with a yawn.

"Are we there," she asked, sitting up straighter in her seat. Murphy parked the vehicle in front of a large brick building, surrounded by fencing and the remnants of a large camp.

"We're here." His voice was grim, and he stared past her to look at the building. It had a weird feeling to it, something dark and a little dangerous.

Just like Murphy himself.

She undid her holster and grabbed her pistol before opening her door. When he didn't move, she gave him an expectant look.

"You coming?"

He shook his head a little before his gaze shifted to her. "What?"

"Aren't you coming?"

The man nodded quickly, and she narrowed her eyes at the odd movement. Was he... scared?

Well, well, well.

The all-powerful Murphy did have fears, after all.

The thought would have delighted her, if not for the work they had to do. Which- judging by the state of the building - was not going to be as easy as George had told them.

Her boots hit the asphalt as she hopped out of the truck, scanning their surroundings. Not a soul in sight, although that wasn't surprising. Following the black rain a few years ago, the apocalypse had been...different.

Weirder than usual.

They approached the building, only to discover the front doors were blocked from the inside with debris. (y/n) sighed as Murphy tried - and failed - to heave the door open with his shoulder, grunting.

"Why is nothing ever easy?"

"This is the apocalypse, sweetheart," Murphy muttered, looking around them anxiously. "It's not supposed to be easy." She huffed a breath.

"Yeah, well, a girl can dream," she started walking towards the other side of the building, looking for another entrance. "Is there somewhere else we can get in? A back door or something?"

Murphy, following closely on her heels, shook his head. "I had them all removed when I was set up here," he explained. "There's only one way in. Or out."

(y/n)'s eyes settled on a higher window, one of the very few with no bars on it.

"Says who?"

He followed her gaze to the window and immediately grabbed her wrist, stopping her in her tracks. Her immediate reflex was to recoil. They both paused awkwardly, before he cleared his throat and continued.

"Look, I don't know what's in there."

She arched an eyebrow. "And? We need the stuff for the cure, do we not?" He ran a hand through his dark hair.

"I'll go in first."

(y/n) shoved her pistol back into her thigh holster. "I don't think so. I can't exactly lift you up there."

"Then we'll find another way in!"

She narrowed her eyes at him. "What's your problem?"

The look he gave her was nothing short of anguished - written plain as day on his face. She wasn't sure if she was afraid... or intrigued.

"My problem, is that you want to go in there alone. And I have no idea what brain-eating creature will be waiting for you. Us," He tacked on quickly, as if it was an afterthought.

She gave him a wry, teasing smile. "Murphy, are you worried about me?" He sighed heavily.

"I think I liked you better when you were afraid of me."

His gaze flickered away from her and his shrug seemed forced, causing her smile to widen.

"That's not true, is it?"

"I-I don't know what you're talking about," he protested weakly, moving to stand below the window to help her up.

She braced her foot on her knee as his hands gripped her waist, ready to push her higher so she could enter through the window. The fabric did very little to dull the feeling of his hands on her, but she forced herself to tease him instead - a distraction.

"Aw, don't tell me you actually like me, Al."

He paused, obviously not expecting the nickname to fall from her lips. She took that moment to step up, hefting herself up and through the window.

It's glass had been broken long ago, and crunched softly beneath her boots as she maneuvered through the opening.

"You okay?" His call reached her. Instead of replying, she reached a hand out the window and showed off her middle finger. His chuckle was quiet, growing distant as she made her way through the room.

The place had been ransacked, it looked like. Debris littered practically every surface, scattered in a way that suggested someone - or something - had called this place home after Murphytown had fallen apart.

(y/n) took her gun from her holster again. Moving through the building slowly, she had a feeling it wouldn't be wise to be unarmed. Distantly, she thought she heard a floor creaking.

Cautiously, she approached the room that she thought the noise had originated from. Despite years of survival, her heart still pounded as she crept towards it.

From the doorway, she couldn't see anything beyond the typical debris and a busted-up cradle. This looked like a child's room, complete with a table set for tea and -

(y/n) screamed as the thing flew at her face. Her finger closed over the trigger reflexively, sending a bullet through the nearby window. As the glass fell, she swatted blindly at the air.

"Fucking hell," she cursed, watching the bird fly happily over her head and down the hall. "Chill out, (y/n)."

Downstairs, she swore she heard a thumping. She adjusted the grip on her gun and slowly began descending the stairs. She felt more confident now, after the bird scare.

Surely there wouldn't be anything still here. Or, at least, that's what she tried to tell herself to calm her racing heart.

The thumping continued, punctuated by a worried cry of her name. She sighed and rolled her eyes. Just that selfish idiot, trying to bust the door down.

"Relax," she shouted back, quickly jogging down the stairs towards the door. "I'm fine! It was just a bir-" The zombie careened into her, its rotting stench filling her nostrils.

She fought against the feeling of bile rising in her throat. It's arms latched onto her and it tugged. Her blood froze as her hold released on her gun, which skittered off to the side.

"Shit," she cried out, pushing at its shoulders to keep its snapping teeth off of her. It smelt like death, and felt like it too. This fear was something she hadn't experienced very often lately, unused to its crippling effect.

"Murphy!" She managed, gritting her teeth as its spit flew at her, teeth gnashing the empty air. "Help me! Please!"

She'd known this man at the prison. Watched as he fled from the zombies during outbreak, not bothering to help his fellow prisoners. What on God's green earth had made her think that he would help her?

(y/n) panted, finally having managed get the thing off her. She pushed it roughly. The sound of squelching flesh reached her ears as its arm fell off from the impact of hitting the opposite wall.

Murphy's anxious voice called over the sound of him hitting the door repeatedly, trying to get in to her.

"I'm coming! Hang in there, (y/n)!"

The fear in his voice matched what she was feeling as the zombie shambled towards her. Her heart pounded in her ears as she watched a few more of its friends stumble through a dark doorway nearby.

"Please, hurry!"

Gun. She needed to find her gun. The thumping had stopped - had he left her?

Oh God, he'd left her here to fight them on her own. When was the last time she'd fought a zombie? Oh, she was so fucked.

The first one's remaining arm flailed out towards her and she ducked, knees hitting the floor. She was quick to crawl forwards and kick its knee out, sending it sprawling to the floor.

She stood - the other zombies quickly gaining on her - and stomped roughly on its rotting skull. The contents of its head splattered her boots and pants, bloody proof of the mercy she'd given it.

The sound of three gunshots caused her ears to ring a little and she whirled around, trying to catch her breath.

"What the-"

Murphy stood with her gun in his hand, face stony as he watched the undead corpses fall to the ground. There were bullet wounds in each of their heads. A kill shot.

He'd killed them, to save her.

His chest was heaving - just like hers - and he closed the distance between them quickly. His softly shaking hands grabbed her shoulders, his eyes wild and searching her for injuries.

"Are you bit?"

"No," she shook her head, wiping blood from her cheek. "I'm fine."

"You're hurt. Shit, I told you, you shouldn't have-"

"Murphy."

His eyes finally settled on hers as he angled his face downwards to look at her. She stared pointedly down at the hands clutching her jacket and he immediately let go, taking a step back.

The two avoided eye contact briefly, giving (y/n) time to access the damage he'd done to the doors. The debris had been cast aside like it weighed nothing, and she sword the door was hanging crookedly.

Like Murphy had torn it apart, just to get to her. The thought warmed her cheeks, so she hung her head as she pushed past him to head up the stairs.

"Let's just get this shit and go home."

--Altura, the following week

George looked at her expectantly as (y/n) slammed the door the vehicle closed and strode away. "Well?"

"'Well' what?"

George's eyes were alight with excitement, but over what - (y/n) wasn't sure. She was planning something, that was for sure.

"How was it?"

The ex-guard shrugged, casting a glance at Murphy, who was grabbing their supplies to take straight to Sun Mei's old lab. "It was fine. We got everything, so the cure should be ready for testing soon."

George shook her head, smiling. "That's not what I was talking about, and you know it." (y/n) feigned innocence, cocking her head.

"What, you mean how you sent me with him on purpose? Nice try, Cupid, but it's not going to be that easy."

George raised a dark eyebrow, watching her friend cast a small smile at Murphy as he walked past, supplies in hand. The man returned it, eyes softer than what George thought was possible - based on Warren's description of him - and her own experiences with the man.

"I hate you," (y/n) muttered, pulling George in for a quick, fierce hug. Her friend was surprised, but returned it after a brief second of hesitation.

"I love you too, buddy."

The women pulled away, and (y/n) laughed despite herself. "Just so you know, I'll get you back for this." George laughed.

"You gonna tell me what happened, or not?"

George watched as her friend strode away, shaking her head fondly. Heading in the same direction as Murphy had gone - towards Sun Mei's old lab.

"Nope," she called over her shoulder, grinning happily.

She had other things to tell someone else.

George could wait, because right now: she needed to talk to Murphy. They were years in the making - from before the apocalypse to today.

And she was done waiting.

--Pacifica, 1 year later

Later, memories of before began to surface. How her heart would race anytime he was near, the stumble in her words at the sight of his stupid winks. The way she had tried to play it off for her own sanity.

A guard could never love a prisoner - no matter how charming he could be. The charming were often the worse ones, after all. But not Murphy. Murphy was different.

So, she told herself it was fear. That she snuck glances at him because she was afraid he'd try to hurt her. That she thought of him often because of how much he terrified her.

But she wasn't afraid, she'd been lying to herself. She could see that now.

It was never fear. It was love.

As if he could sense she was thinking of him, Murphy suddenly sat down on the bench beside her, sun rays hitting his red-tinted skin and highlighting the flattering cut of his suit.

"So, what'll it be today, my dear? You gonna throw me in solitary confinement, or let me enjoy the sunshine?" He asked, trailing a hand down her arm until it reached her hand, before lifting it to his mouth. His kiss was gentle, unlike the rest of him.

And she loved it.

"I guess you'll just have to wait and see, Al."

"Yes, ma'am."

NOTES;

ok i actually love them so much omg

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

I just started reading your 10k fanfic on wattpad and normally I don't like x reader fics for this Fandom but yours is really fracking good

RAHHH THANK YOU!!!! i am over here giggling and kicking my feet rn!!

i just write the fanfic i wanted to read when i was superrrr obsessed with Z Nation because this fandom needs to be kept alive :)

mwah!! you are amazing!!!

-vg. <3

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

seeing my husband 10K on the big screen again ahhhhh you guys this is so exciting!!! If you haven’t signed the petition already, please please consider it!!!

xoxo

-vg.

Wow. Just learned today that Keith Allan and his writing partner are trying to get Z Nation revived!

They set up the subreddit r/ZNationReborn to detail their efforts. This is a link to their latest update from April 22, 2025

The details:

Like I said above, Keith and I have completed the Pitch Deck, which is 17 pages of awesomeness. We also have the completed 2 minute teaser trailer, which I am hoping to be able to show you guys soon. Multiple cast members, (Russel, Katy, Kellita) have seen the trailer and loved it. In addition to having the whole season planned out, Keith has written up the first episode... Which is fucking DYNAMIC!!

2 things next:

Get the cast fully onboard the boat

Pitch to the IP owners (Not The Asylum)

Also a reminder, if you have not already, no need to give money at all, but please do sign the petition to get the show back on the air. This petition has been my own grassroots effort and has not been publicized on any of the casts social media accounts. Once that happens, it is going to blow up! But for now, please sign as we are almost at 500 signatures grown organically!! Also, if you have some followers on TikTok or IG, please do not hesitate to share with them.

https://www.Change.org/znation

I can try to answer any questions you have, as long as they don't go into specifics of the planned season.

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

Do you get deja vu? (murphy x fem!reader) Requested by Anon <3

(i still don't know how tumblr rlly works so i lost your ask otherwise i would have replied to it here!! sry love!! hope u enjoyyyy)

wc: 2.4k

⌞ɪɴ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ... murphy is reunited with an old... friend? acquaintance? fling? neither of them really knows ⌝

--Kittery, Maine. Day One.

Portsmouth Naval Prison was no joke. Sure, it didn't house the worst of the worst within its barbed wire-tipped walls, but that didn't mean it wasn't any less ruthless.

It was petty criminals, mostly. Tax evasion, assault, breaking and entering, and smuggling. The truth? Most of their inmates thought they were scarier than they were. But one inmate in particular - Alvin Murphy - didn't think he was nearly as scary as he was.

At least, to her.

While she didn't show it, his deadly charm and even deadlier reputation as being a self-serving bastard - spiked her anxiety tenfold.

Whether he was winking at her as she led him from his cell to the recreation area for his outdoor time, or flashing her a grin whenever he deigned to use the workout facility, Alvin Murphy terrified her.

Or, rather, the idea of her attitude toward him terrified her.

(y/n) was not a gentle woman. The only woman at Portsmouth Naval, she had learned very on that gentleness would get you killed - or worse. Being a guard didn't help either. There was a constant target on her back, one that seemed a little more pronounced when he was around.

She'd caught his piercing blue eyes on her more times than she cared to admit, and each was received with a glare summoned from the very bottom of her heart.

She meant her glares. Each and every one of them. Or, at least, that's what she told herself.

Her heart raced as she stood guard over their recreation area, where the man sat playing cards with a few other inmates. Her eyes were narrowed with suspicion as she watched him.

They were betting with something that she couldn't see from here, not as she was also trying to watch the other inmates as well. Her partner had went back inside to answer a distress call on the radio, and hadn't come out since.

The sun was slowly beginning to shift closer towards the horizon, signaling to the inmates it was almost time to head back in. She mentally prepared herself, resting a hand on her gun.

Serving for ten years leaves old habits that die hard, that's for sure.

The heavy metal door leading back into the prison slammed open against the brick exterior, startling the guard. She immediately spun to face the source of the noise, her heart racing for an entirely different reason now.

Her partner stumbled out, looking worse for wear.

"Hey, are you alright?" She knelt down where he'd fallen, noticing the blood staining his clothes. Behind him, multiple inmates and a few other guards came rushing out.

She watched with wide eyes as they came flooding out, most of them covered in blood. Her weapon was out in an instant, its safety out. This was a riot.

Her partner suddenly stirred with a guttural groan that didn't quite sound human and stood on his feet. The guard, frozen in fear, raised her weapon at the quickly-approached flood of bodies.

"Stop!" She shouted over the groans and howls of the people. No, something was wrong. "Everyone on your knees! Now!"

Her voice reached no ears, and she stood paralyzed as one inmate - bloody, like the others - latched himself onto another. Blood sprayed her uniform as he tore a chunk from their neck, sending gore flying.

(y/n) stumbled back, away from the creatures with a cry. More cries resounded in the courtyard from the other inmates.

What the hell was going on?

She risked a look towards the picnic table, seeing Murphy's eyes wide with fear.

"RUN!" She shouted over the noise, before firing her weapon at the violent crowd. Whatever they had become, they definitely weren't human.

And Murphy?

Murphy watched his favorite guard - who he knew hated him - defend these inmates, who would have let her die in a second. But she was fighting to protect them.

She fired her weapon into the mass of monsters and one fell dead at her feet. For a minute, he was frozen. He'd seen her in the same outfit - pressed guard's uniform and boots - for two years. Her hair was always pulled back without imperfections, and she was beautiful. An idiot could it. Way too pretty to be stuck in this place with them. But hey, he was just grateful for something pretty - besides himself - to look at.

But now, her face covered in blood and her eyes wide with fear as she shot at her former teammates?

Well, she was a damned goddess. Even as the zombies - as he later found out they were - killed her.

Or so he thought.

-- Altura. Voting Day.

The ex-military tapped her foot impatiently, her heavy black boot the only thing punctuating the silence. The vote was to be cast today, and they just got word of a new batch of survivors being brought in from outside.

On today, of all days? Shit, she'd have her work cut out for her.

Between being George's right-hand woman and leading her forces, settling with petty squabbles between talker and human, AND on top of keeping the peace during voting, she now had to deal with this.

They were currently getting checked out, but she'd caught wind from one of the nurses down at the gate that one of them was red - like the devil.

Weird.

Being such high-priority personnel, (y/n) was given the opportunity to cast her vote before polls officially opened, since she was going to be busy dealing with the chaos that would surely ensue.

She crossed her arms with a huff, waiting for the person to hurry up and pick yes or no already. It had been way longer than they needed. Finally, she slammed her fist against the door of the voting room.

"Do you mind? Some of us have places to be. Just pick already!"

Her tone was short, annoyance seeping into every syllable. This far into apocalypse, she didn't have the patience for this kind of bullshit. Her fucks had run out before the undead took over the world, and now she had none left to give.

Unfortunate for everyone around her, sure.

For her? Well, this was just reality.

The door finally opened to reveal a very angry-looking squad member from another team. From Pacifica, guessing from the emblem on her jacket.

"Impatient, much?"

"Indecisive, much?" (y/n) sneered back, before slamming the door.

Vote now cast, the team leader could head down to join her team at the polls in the main building. She took her usual shortcut, across the metal catwalk and down the "emergency exit" staircase.

Emergency exit, her ass.

She entered the rowdy haul silently. Years of apocalypse had taught her to be quiet. But there was no distracting from her commanding presence as she moved to stand by George.

Her friend cast her a small smile, wrapping an arm around her shoulder.

"Glad you could make it!"

(y/n) suppressed a grin at her friend's welcome, settling for a nod instead as she observed the crowd carefully. Looking for danger or opposition.

"Yeah, me too."

"You voted?"

"Yep."

George's hope was contagious - that was how she'd roped (y/n) into starting Newmerica with her in the first place. Watching the crowd, her heart warmed with the prospect of a safe place, away from the horrors of the apocalypse.

It was about time she had the chance for a little bit of peace. Ever since that day at Portsmouth, her entire life had been a cortisol, fight-or-flight fever dream.

But today, maybe that was over.

A new crowd of people entered the hall, and (y/n) frowned as the back of her neck suddenly prickled. The room seemed smaller, somehow.

A familiar fear crept up the base of her spine, licking at her fingertips that clenched into anxious fists. She scanned the crowd more actively now, eyes darting from figure to figure.

"Oh, I totally forgot," George suddenly piped up. "An old friend of mine from Black Summer - right before I met you - showed up today. With some friends."

"That's nice, George," she replied distractedly, still searching the crowd. Her heart was pounding anxiously in her chest. But why?

"Yeah, they came in with that weird, red guy Janet was telling you about."

(y/n)'s gaze quickly darted to her friend once more. "Red guy?"

"Calls himself 'Murphy'. I guess they've been together a long time. There was... tension between them." Her dark eyebrows waggled a little before she raised a hand.

A dark-haired woman in the crowd, raised hers back in response, giving a wave. (y/n) looked at the figure behind her and-

No.

No. No. No. No.

Fuck.

"Please don't be him, please don't be him," (y/n) muttered under her breath, feeling a fresh wave of that icy-cold fear wash over her body.

"Warren! Murphy! Come join us."

(y/n) kept her gaze locked firmly on the woman, refusing to acknowledge the man beside her. She'd caught a glimpse when he wasn't paying attention, and that was enough for her.

He was red, that was for sure. But damn it, only Alvin Murphy could make red skin like the devil look good. And did it ever look good on him. His suit didn't help, either.

The prisoner she knew was gone, but then again, the guard he knew was gone too.

"Nice to meet you," Warren - the woman - gave her a salute, which she returned.

"You too."

"What, nothing for me?" Murphy appeared in her vision, leaning closer to force her to look at him. His mouth was curved up into a smirk, like he knew all too well what she was thinking.

What she was feeling.

"Not even a 'i missed you'?"

(y/n) glared at him, having to look up a little to meet his eyes, which were alight with amusement. This bastard was enjoying this! Of course he was, she thought wryly.

"I'm not a liar," she replied with false sweetness, crossing her arms. "So I won't tell you I missed you, Murphy." His grin widened.

"You two know each other?" George looked between them, observing (y/n)'s glare levelled in the newcomer's direction.

"No," The woman said quickly, eyes darting to her friend.

"We're old friends," Murphy amended, slinging an arm around her shoulder. "Will you excuse us?"

Ignoring her protests, the man led her outside into an abandoned hall, where it was quiet. She grit her teeth, letting him think he had control.

The second they weren't around any witnesses, (y/n) pushed her forearm against his throat and forced him against the wall. Rough enough that he gasped, but didn't look afraid.

No, if anything - he looked excited.

"What the fuck was that?" She hissed, anger contorting her features. "You think we're friends? We were never friends, Murphy." He chuckled, a red hand raised to brush a stray lock of her from her face.

"We weren't? Still playing hard to get, I see."

She increased the pressure on his windpipe, which shut him up pretty quick. He tapped her shoulder a few times, and she reluctantly released him. Just a little.

"How are you alive?" She asked incredulously, suspicion evident in the pull of her brows. "Portsmouth was overrun, they told me everybody died."

He brushed invisible lint from his shoulder with a flourish. "Not everybody, sweetheart."

"Don't. Call. Me. That." She grit her teeth, ignoring the rush of warmth that was definitely not fear.

"Or what?" His mouth twitched with barely-contained amusement. "You'll hit me, Miss Guard?"

She flashed him a sweet smile before stepping back, needing some distance between them. "You really don't want to find out. Now, stay away from me, or you will be finding out."

He chuckled, a rich, low sound that she knew would be stuck in her head all day long. And maybe all night, too. It had been so long since she'd heard it, it was sure to be stuck in her head for longer than she would ever admit to anyone.

"Maybe I want to find out," he replied coolly, a dangerous glint in his dark eyes. She turned on her heel to stride away from him, needing some fresh air while he mind reeled.

A rough tug on her wrist forced her to turn back to look at him. She groaned in frustration. "What do you want, Murphy?"

He paused, seeming unsure for the first time during their reunion. Like he wasn't sure what he wanted, only that she was involved. "I..."

"Come on, spit it out," she quipped.

He cleared his throat and loosened his grip on her wrist, enough to still have an excuse to touch her - proof that she was really here. Alive.

"I wanted to thank you," he began slowly, watching confusion take over her features. The apocalypse had done wonders for her, and his eyes trailed over the scar marring her face as he wondering who did it to her.

And, more importantly, where he could find them to make them pay for harming her.

"For saving me. That day, in Portsmouth. You saved me."

She scoffed, brushing it off. "I didn't do that just to save you. But... it looks like you're the only one that made it out alive."

He nodded grimly. "Long story short: everyone croaked and turned Z, which left yours truly to graciously sacrifice himself for the good of humanity."

She gave him a flat look, unimpressed. "So, to translate: they tied you down and forced you? That sounds a little more accurate." He paused, letting out a brief, indignant laugh.

"No, no, I'm telling you-"

The man halted in his tracks. (y/n) had finally cracked a smile, the first one he'd seen her sport in years. And the first one he'd seen that he was the cause of.

Pride stirred in his chest.

"Uh-huh. Sure." She shook her head and pulled from his grasp, still smiling a little as she left him standing in the hall. She paused at the door and turned to look at him.

"Hey, Murphy?"

He raised his head immediately at her voice, hopefulness evident. "Yes, (y/n)?"

She winked at him. "It's good to see you."

The door slammed behind her, leaving the man to mull over what just happened. His heart, which the vaccine had always made to feel more like a lump in his chest, was racing.

He felt alive - for the first time in a long time. He might have been halfway to being a zombie, but he sure as hell didn't feel like it.

He felt human.

--

NOTE;

i did not mean for it to be that long but i got carried away LOL i actually love Murphy(when he isn't hurting my man 10k) hehe

should i make a part 2?

-vg.

(also wrote this at 12:30am so not proofread)

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

10K ~ Z-Nation Headcanons

General:

This guy totally names his weapons. I’m not kidding - every single one. His rifle? Probably something like “Old girl”, or “straight shooter”. Knives? Oh, you bet he names those too. 

10K: *mumbling something as he cleans the blood from his knife* 

y/n: did you say something?

10K: uh.. no. 

y/n: pretty sure I just heard you call that knife “Stabby”

10K: … you must be hearing things (they were not hearing things)

 Hums to keep himself company if he’s alone on watch. Nothing specific, just little tunes to stave off the boredom of sitting alone all night long, watching for Zs. 

Before he met the rest of Operation Bitemark, he’d talk to himself to not feel lonely. He would avoid other humans at all costs - for fear of being shot at, or worse - and it began to wear him down over time. 

Animals LOVE him. The group finds a stray dog or cat? You BET the little cutie is curling up with him by the fire and getting some scratches behind the ear, or even snuggles if he’s feeling it. 

Actually hates the name ‘Jeff’, and only told Doc that because he had to make up something quick. 

He counts his kills, obviously, but since joining the mission, he has a new goal: Get Murphy to California. Making it to 10,000 is really just something he does because he thinks his Pa would be disappointed if he gave up

Would 100% give the last of his food to anybody he cared about - not Murphy, duh. but anybody else. you're hungry? he's sneaking the last of his rations into your bag for you to find.

This man is CLINGY and not just in a romantic way. He was alone for so long, that now he hates when he has to go off on his own - even just to quickly scrounge up some gas. 

When Doc or anybody gives him physical affection, he tries to play it cool, but inside he is giggling and kicking his feet. Absolutely loves it, but will never admit that.

Warren definitely scares him, but he will confide in her before anybody else(even Doc) - she reminds him of his mom.

Romantic:

This man is a YEARNER. Y’all saw how he was with Cassandra, he will pine literally until the day he dies because admitting he has feelings for someone scares the shit out of him

You would have to make the first move for sure, and he’d be totally oblivious to every tiny hint you gave him. 

y/n: 10K… I like you. 

10K: I like you too! 

y/n: no, I mean like, I like you like you. 

10K: you… you do?

y/n: dude… i literally kissed your cheek yesterday

10k: … i just thought you were trying to be friendly. Not that friendly. 

So incredibly whipped. Like, it’s painful to watch. Heart eyes, blushing, the whole deal. Not a nonchalant bone in that boy’s body. If he loves you, he’s cleaning your gun for you, making sure you eat before him, literally cleaning your wounds, everything and anything he can to make sure you know you’re loved. 

Is definitely protective, but also trust that his partner can take care of themselves. But that doesn’t mean he isn’t keeping one eye on them during a fight, though. 

Can’t flirt to save his life, but his awkwardness is definitely part of his charm. 

Hates PDA, but LOVES physical affection when you guys are alone. Keeping watch together? He’s holding your hand. Everybody else is asleep and it’s just you guys around the fire? You better BELIEVE that boy has an arm slung around your shoulders. 

Everybody realizes he’s in love before himself - Doc and Addy tease him about it endlessly.

10K: *staring at y/n killing Zs with hearts in his eyes*

Addy: just tell them already!!

10K: tell them what?

Addy: *head in her hands* you’re so clueless

Would teach you how to shoot his rifle just to be close to you

The first time he says “i love you”, it’s not big or even really that romantic, honestly. It was probably after a big fight with zombies, or a side quest gone wrong, and he just comes right out and says it. 

this little cutie probably collects little cute things to give you - pretty rocks, flowers he finds, the nicest weapons, your fave snack(if he finds it)

we all know this man would carve you a little heart or something, once you're officially a thing.

^^Also is the type to carve your initials into a tree, to leave a trace of you behind.

would be unintentionally poetic but not even realize it?? Like, spits the most romantic, adorable thing ever and then casually pikes another Z like it's a regular Tuesday(meanwhile you're giggling and looking at him, but he can't figure out why)

His parents used to dance in the kitchen to the radio before his Mom died, and he takes any opportunity to do that with his partner

Speaking of his mom, if he's alone at night he'll definitely look up at the stars and talk to her about you. Tell her how amazing you are, how much she would like you if she were still alive. His dad, too.

One time, he's just watching you, laughing with the team about something and he finally figures out what his Dad meant when he said "When you meet your person, son, you'll know. The butterflies you get watching them laugh will tell you."

Spicy: 

He’s usually a quiet guy around others… but boyyy can he be loud. Moans, whimpers, crying out your name, the whole nine yards. If he’s feeling good, you’ll know it. 

Has absolutely zero clue what he’s doing, but loves learning what he and his partner likes

^^Maybe a little too eager the first few times, but once he finds his groove, good luck.

Doesn’t stop blushing the entire time

Or after, every time you look at him after anything intimate he blushes for the next few hours(or possibly days lol)

110% a switch. Enjoys being dominant when he’s comfortable with who he is with, but also does not mind letting them have control over his pleasure

Loves the sound of his name - his real name - rolling off your lips when he’s making you feel good. Moan his name in his ear while he’s thrusting into you and i guarantee you will not be walking the next day. 

On that note, would feel SO BAD if he ever left bruises or you feeling sore. Like, it would literally kill him. The next time y’all did anything he’d be so gentle, not wanting to hurt you again. It’s not until you beg that he finally snaps

Accidentally teases you without even realizing it - whether its gentle touches as you guys walk, or putting his hand on your thigh to get your attention

Cares more about getting you off than himself getting off

Has a praise kink and I will die on this hill

Probably gets turned on watching his partner kill zombies, I mean who wouldn’t? A strong, talented slayer in their nature element, protecting those they love? Damn. 

Once he learns what you like, would happily die between your legs. The sounds you make, the way your body reacts to him, knowing it was because of him you were feeling this good? Good lord.

NOTE;

oh god i didn't mean for this to be so long should i do a pt 2???

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

facts

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

Fave color?

AHHH this is so hard.. but i would say green, because it reminds me of nature and the forest <3 (but yellow is a very close second!)

[verifiedgoddess-afterhours]

Now taking requests!

Hello hello beautiful people!

If you come here from Wattpad, welcome back! If you've never seen my content before then hi, it's lovely to meet you <3

Anyways, enough yapping! The purpose of this post is to have a space where you guys can leave requests, which i'll later publish as a oneshot(or series of oneshots)!!

So... yeah! Feel free to leave requests and I will absolutely love to write them :))

In your request, I do ask that you include character and pairing(xreader, etc), and the general idea of the plot! also, before anyone asks, yes i do write smut lol