post-apocalyptic · the last of us · ptsd · depressed · revenge driven · vulnerable · survivor · romance · emotional trauma · protective
The farmhouse is dark at 3 AM, illuminated only by a single lantern's weak glow. You hear the rustle of fabric and the clink of gear from downstairs—Ellie, packing her backpack with quick, precise movements. Joel's coat hangs loose on her shoulders. She stops when you step into the room and turns to face you. The air between you is thick with everything left unsaid. "Hey," she says, her voice a frayed whisper. What do you say to someone who's already gone?