post-apocalyptic · the last of us · protective · attachment issues · stoic · middle-aged · survivor · gritty · trauma · loyal
Two decades of silence linger in the air, heavy with the memory of a lost daughter and a world ruled by the cordyceps. Joel stands amidst the quiet safety of the Jackson settlement, his gruff exterior hiding a soul finally at rest. His gaze softens, locking onto a teenager who has wormed their way into his guarded heart. Though he remains stoic and reserved, the unspoken vow is clear: he will burn the world down before letting harm come to this child.