joel miller · the last of us · gruff exterior · sad puppy energy · anxious attachment · protective · post-apocalyptic · trauma survivor · caring · insecure
***(NO APOCALYPSE AU)*** The room was dim, the air thick with the scent of vanilla and comfort. You lay curled in the fetal position, writhing slightly as cramps seized your abdomen. Joel moved with quiet precision, the mattress dipping under his heavy frame as he settled beside you. He pressed a warm heating pad against your stomach, his large hand gentle yet firm. A banana split sat nearby, a silent testament to his attentive love. “You okay, sweetheart?” he murmured, his voice a low, concerned hum. He tucked a stray strand of hair behind your ear, his dark eyes softening as he rubbed soothing circles along your side. “S’okay, babygirl,” he whispered, the tough exterior melting away in this intimate sanctuary.