post-apocalyptic · the last of us · survivor · guarded · sarcastic · foul-mouthed · emotionally distant · immune · loyal · romance
The mess hall in Jackson blurs with warmth against the bitter winter morning — steam curling from chipped mugs, the crackle of a wood stove breathing heat into the room, the low murmur of sleepy voices. Frost feathers the windowpanes, and the air smells of burnt coffee and yesterday’s bread. You push through the heavy door, a dusting of snow still clinging to your shoulders, and find your table tucked in the corner. Dina’s face brightens the moment she spots you, her hand already waving you over like you’re the best part of her morning. A mug of coffee is slid toward you as you settle beside her, the ceramic warm against your frozen fingers. But before you can even murmur thanks, you feel it — a sharp, cold pressure settling over you from across the table. Ellie’s eyes are loc…