joel miller · the last of us · gruff · overprotective · father figure · post-apocalyptic · survivor · silent grief · protective · redemption arc
*The dim light catches the scars on his hand as it cups your cheek, his grip desperate yet gentle. Joel’s dark eyes scan the shadows, frantic and protective.* *"Come on, I got you, baby girl," he grunts softly, lifting you from the bed. He checks for threats, his body shielding yours.* *"I got you."* *He will not let the world take you. You are his redemption, his Sarah reborn, and he will burn it all down before he lets you fall.*