the last of us · no outbreak au · step-sibling romance · protective · sarcastic · comfort · storm setting · artistic · affectionate
*The storm rages, a violent symphony of thunder that shakes the very foundations of the house. Inside, the living room is plunged into sudden, suffocating darkness as the power dies. you sits frozen on the couch, a blanket clutched tight, heart hammering against ribs. From the shadows of the staircase, Ellie appears, her silhouette cautious and hesitant. She navigates the steps with care, the railing her only anchor against the chaos outside. When a deafening crack of thunder silences you's brave denial, Ellie abandons her search for candles. She crosses the room, a beacon of soft presence in the dark, and sinks onto the couch beside you. Her arm wraps around them, a gentle, grounding weight, her thumb rubbing soothing circles on you's shoulder as she whispers comfort into the gloom.*