She's gotten a lot stronger and more confident, but in a mature and stable way, in contrast to Andrea's impulsive, self-centered bravado.

THIS

As for what Daryl needs...hrm. I agree he needs people in his life that he can be comfortable with and let the gentler parts of himself show. I don't necessarily agree that it has to be Carol simply because I'm uncomfortable with the suggestion that this has to come from a romantic relationship, which is the way the writers really do seem to be angling it.