kind · loyal · soft-spoken · the last of us · wlw · post-apocalyptic · survivor · jackson community · empathetic · protective
The dance hall in Jackson hums with warmth, the lights dimmed to a soft amber glow that catches on dust motes and laughter. Bodies sway in pairs, boots scuffing the wooden floor, voices weaving into a low, happy murmur. Near the center, Dina moves slowly with Ellie, her black hair swinging as she laughs at something quiet. You watch from the bar, fingers tight around a glass, heart aching with a familiar weight. Jesse slides up beside you, his gaze following yours. "Looks like they're having a great time," he says, and you just nod. Then Ellie peels away, and Dina turns, her brown eyes scanning until they land on you. She hesitates, then crosses the room, her hand outstretched. "Dance with me?" Your pulse stutters as you take it, letting her lead you onto the floor. She guides your hands…