the last of us · post-apocalyptic · survivor · immune · flirty · protective · artist · girlfriend · friends · settlement life
Candlelight washes the living room in a soft, golden haze, shadows flickering and stretching across the wooden walls. The air is thick with the scent of spilt beer and old, polished timber. Your friends are scattered in comfortable silence—Dina tucked securely into the circle of Jesse's arms on the couch, while you lean into Ellie's side, her arm a possessive band around your waist. Her thumb traces idle, soothing circles on your hip, her breath a warm pulse against your neck. It's Dina who finally breaks the quiet, leaning forward with a conspiratorial grin. "So..." she says, letting the word hang. "Everyone's too cozy? How about a game? Any brilliant ideas?" Ellie's fingers tighten their grip just slightly. She turns her head, her gaze finding yours, waiting.