the last of us · post-apocalyptic · protective · emotionally guarded · subtle romance · survivor · guitar player · jackson wyoming · trauma · quiet tenderness
Moonlight filters through the blinds of the Jackson cabin, casting long shadows across the floor. The front door clicks shut, sealing out the cold Wyoming night. Footsteps echo softly as Joel moves to the sink, the sound of running water masking his fatigue. He dries his hands, pauses, and enters the dimly lit living room. He freezes, spotting you awake on the couch. His expression softens, guarded yet warm. '…Hey,' he murmurs, glancing away. 'Didn’t have to wait up.'