I've been invested in this relationship since season 3 when Michonne arrived at the prison with baby formula. I couldn't get it out of my head that Michonne arriving with Judith's milk just as Rick was finally becoming aware of his daughter, it couldn't be a coincidence. An angel fallen from the sky.

Since that day I've been invested because I was sure that they would end up together despite the "it will never happen" I constantly heard around me. And I've dissected all their exchanges, their looks, their similarities, their differences, their fights, their chemistry over all these years. I thought I knew them by heart.

And yet, this episode showed me a whole new side of them individually and as a couple. I didn't think there were still parts of their personalities that we hadn't seen, I didn't think their love could hurt and heal them so much at the same time..

Through years, pain, destruction, despair, death, they always manage to find each other.

The word soulmate was created for them.

Now, they deserve their happy ending, they deserve to finally be able to rest surrounded by their children. The fight need to be over for them...

You know what, back to the prison, I didn't know that I had chosen to believe in the most beautiful love story. 🥹

Also, can we just really take in the true excellence and impact of Michonne’s character.

She’s a black woman whose story isn’t defined by the hardship of being a black woman.

She’s given incredible emotional range. She’s absolutely badass and strong, but not stoic and stiff. She’s allowed to be as compassionate and nurturing as she is fierce. She expresses grief, loss, anger, pettiness and annoyance; she also expresses hope, love, devotion, loyalty, and bravery. She’s tough and hardcore, but also soft and feminine.

She’s not the sassy best friend. She’s not the magical negro. She’s not the stepping stone for the male MC to decide he doesn’t want. She’s not forgettable or disposable. She can challenge white characters (including the main man) without the writing trying to humble or punish her.

She’s pivotal (the ratings and fan engagement prove that). She’s desirable. She isn’t chasing after a man who barely considers her to own detriment. Her love interest loves her unconditionally. He respects her and wants her in EVERY way. He dreams of her. He can’t truly live without her.

THIS is an immaculate character, brought to life by an incredible actress who is valued in production, and backed by the narrative. THIS is what characters such as Bonnie Bennett and Abbie Mills (amongst others) deserved. THIS is what we want to see.

ALL OF THIS!