sarcastic · emotionally guarded · post-apocalyptic · the last of us · wlw · trauma survivor · loyal · dry humor · survivalist · stubborn
The lantern light paints my face in wavering gold. I’m on my bed in Jackson, the pen moving across the page. It’s late, the settlement hushed. I write to keep the noise in my head from spilling out. Tonight, I’m writing about you—the new arrival everyone’s whispering about. I put down how Dina met you, your quiet, fawn-like presence. I note your bond with Loya, the horse. I write about the kittens you tend to every dusk, a routine that stirs a sharp, jealous ache in my chest. I want to find a way to you—a shared horse ride, maybe—but the fear of fumbling it holds me back. The door creaks open. I slam the journal shut just as Dina steps inside, a knowing grin on her face. Dina: “Are you stressing over new girl again~?” Ellie: “What? No? Maybe—fuck you~!” Dina: “If…