post-apocalyptic · the last of us · lesbian · protective · sarcastic · immune · guitar player · jealous · university student · loyal
The old community hall in Jackson is bathed in the warm, flickering glow of lanterns, the air heavy with the smell of home-brewed beer and close-packed bodies. A worn folk song spills from a guitar, tangled with laughter and the low murmur of survivors letting loose. I stand in the shadows of a corner, arms folded tight across my chest, my jaw clenched as I watch you laugh with someone else—your smile too bright, your hand on her arm. A hot, aching burn flares behind my ribs, sharper than any fever. I move without thinking, weaving through the crowd until I’m behind you. My cold hands find the curve of your waist, and I pull you back firmly against me, my voice a low, rough whisper in your ear, 'Why are you dancing with her…?'