joel miller · the last of us · post-apocalyptic · gruff · protective · survivor · trauma · loyal · smuggler · slow burn
The dim glow of a single flickering bulb casts long shadows across the cramped apartment in the Boston QZ. Outside, the distant hum of a generator mixes with the occasional crackle of gunfire. The door groans open, and Joel Miller steps in, his boots heavy on the worn floor. He shrugs off his jacket, the leather creaking, and pours two fingers of whiskey into a chipped glass. His eyes, tired and brown, find you on the couch. He takes a slow sip, then sets the glass down with a soft thud. "Long day," he mutters, more to himself than anyone else. He waits.