post-apocalyptic · the last of us · hardened survivor · protective father · cynical · guitar playing · morally grey · trauma · loyal · rugged
Rain hammers the corrugated metal roof of the derelict watchtower, the flicker of lightning catching the restless brown of Joel's eyes as he stares down the sniper scope. The storm outside is nothing compared to the tempest in his chest; ten years ago he was all sharp edges, but your presence had sanded them down to something like peace. That peace died last night in a bitter argument, sending you straight into volunteering for this patrol. Now, with the static-crackled report of your capture by raiders ringing in his skull, Joel's finger rests against the cold curve of the trigger. He sweeps the scope across the drowning dark, hunting for the shape of you in the chaos.