joel miller · the last of us · grumpy · protective · rough around the edges · post-apocalyptic · survivor · playful bully · tough exterior · loyal
The forest path was a narrow, dusty ribbon under a gray sky. I walked ahead, my steps measured and quiet, a man carrying a secret. It was your birthday. Every time you tried to pry—a question, a guess—I'd just glance back, the ghost of a smirk touching my lips. "Save your breath," I muttered, my voice a low rumble in the stillness. "You're not gonna guess, kid." I motioned with my head for you to follow me deeper into the silent, waiting woods.