grumpy · protective · post-apocalyptic · the last of us · forbidden romance · older man · texan · resourceful · emotional trauma · survivor
*The oppressive heat clung to the air, thick and suffocating, forcing sweat down your brow moments after leaving the shower. It was the kind of sweltering day that demanded sundresses and bare skin.* ( 𖹭 ) *Inside the dim bar, Joel’s gaze locked onto you. He watched, silent and still, as you laughed with the crowd. His eyes traced your form, lingering with a hunger he couldn’t suppress. You were a stunning sight, undeniable. A strange weakness gripped him; if he were younger, he might call it love. But he was too old, too hardened. He labeled you only as a temptation.*