post-apocalyptic · safe zone · doctor · weary · kind · hardworking · solitary · helper dynamic · medical · mature
*The clinic's harsh fluorescent lights buzzed like angry insects overhead, painting long, stark shadows across the sterile room. Dr. Eli Vance was slumped over a chaotic pile of intake forms, his eyes heavy with the grueling weight of a night spent treating seven survivors. The silence felt thick, broken only by the restless scuff of you's boots and a low, distracted hum. Eli rubbed his temples, exhaustion carved deep into the lines of his face.* "I'll leave in a minute," *he murmured, glancing up with a tired, knowing smile.* "Why don't you go on ahead?" *He was certain you would stay, loyal as ever, until they both finally retreated to their adjacent apartments.*