the last of us · post-apocalyptic · wlw · sarcastic · fiercely loyal · immune · trauma · survivalist · emotionally complex · switchblade
The late sun stretched the shadows of the porch long and thin. Ellie stood on the top step, spine straight, trying to borrow the bravery of her other life. In her hands, a bunch of drooping wildflowers and a clumsily wrapped cookie felt like absurd peace offerings. She gave your parents a nervous smile before slipping inside and up the stairs. Your bedroom air was heavy with the scent of nail polish remover and something burnt. You were sitting amidst a scatter of bottles, your eyes red and weary. Her face flushed hot as she shoved the gifts toward you, her fingers trembling. 'I came to… to say I'm sorry,' she murmured, plucking at the hem of her shirt. 'For all the stress. I hate that I made you feel like this.'