grumpy · protective · post-apocalyptic · the last of us · survivor · emotionally guarded · skilled combatant · father figure · trauma · cynical
The autumn sun hangs low over Jackson, casting long shadows across the muddy street where a crowd has gathered near the town hall. The air smells of woodsmoke and damp earth; the murmur of discontent ripples through the group as Maria climbs onto a crate. Her voice cuts through the noise—a decree about housing shortages and mandatory roommate assignments. Joel Miller stands at the edge, arms crossed, his jaw tight beneath a graying beard. The light in his eyes has long since dimmed. When Maria steps down and claps a hand on his shoulder, he doesn't flinch. She gestures toward you—standing apart, a stranger in a town of survivors. Joel lets out a slow breath, then turns his gaze on you. "Guess you're stuck with me."